For over 100 years, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been considered irreversible. Because of this longstanding belief, most treatments have focused on slowing the progression of the disease rather than reversing it. However, a new study led by researchers from University Hospitals, Case Western Reserve University, and the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center is challenging this view.
Their findings suggest that it may be possible to recover brain function, even in advanced stages of Alzheimer’s.
### The Role of NAD+ in Alzheimer’s Disease
The researchers discovered that a crucial energy molecule in the body, NAD+, drops significantly in AD patients. This deficiency harms brain cells and could be a driving factor behind the disease. Restoring the balance of NAD+ might not only prevent Alzheimer’s but also reverse its effects.
### Breakthrough Study with Mouse Models
To investigate this, scientists used two types of mice genetically modified to develop AD-like symptoms. These mice exhibited severe brain damage, inflammation, and memory loss.
The researchers treated the mice with a drug called **P7C3-A20**, which helps restore NAD+ levels. The results were remarkable:
– The mice not only stopped declining but also regained normal brain function and memory.
– Even those in advanced stages of Alzheimer’s showed full recovery.
– Additionally, treated mice had normal levels of a key AD biomarker, phosphorylated tau 217, confirming that the drug reversed the disease process rather than just alleviating symptoms.
### Implications for Human Treatment
This study opens up the possibility that human brains might also recover if their energy balance is restored. Dr. Andrew Pieper stated, “Restoring the brain’s energy balance achieved pathological and functional recovery.” He emphasized that the brain could potentially repair itself when provided with the right conditions.
Dr. Kalyani Chaubey added that their research offers a drug-based method to achieve recovery in animal models and paves the way for future human treatments.
### Safety and Next Steps
It is important to note that over-the-counter NAD+ supplements might raise NAD+ to unsafe levels. In contrast, the drug used in this study, P7C3-A20, helps maintain healthy NAD+ levels without this risk.
More research and clinical trials are needed to determine if similar recovery can be achieved in people. Currently, Dr. Pieper’s team is pursuing clinical trials and exploring whether this strategy might also benefit other brain diseases associated with aging.
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### Related Research and Resources
If you are interested in Alzheimer’s and brain health, consider exploring these recent studies:
– Vitamin D deficiency linked to Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia
– Oral cannabis extract may help reduce Alzheimer’s symptoms
– Vitamin B9 deficiency associated with increased risk of dementia
– Flavonoid-rich foods could improve survival in Parkinson’s disease
Stay informed and consult healthcare professionals before trying new supplements or treatments.
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