Antioxidant found in grapes ‘can offer Alzheimer’s protection’

A new study has revealed the potential role of a naturally-occurring antioxidant found in grapes in protecting against Alzheimer's disease.

Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine have conducted a study to evaluate the efficacy of grape-derived polyphenols in preventing the generation of a certain beta-amyloid peptide involved in neurodegeneration.

From experiments using mice with genetically determined risks of developing memory deficits, it was found that the substance was able to reduce the amount of this neurotoxin generated in the brain.

The team stated that biomarkers should now be developed to identify those at a high risk of developing Alzheimer's disease so that polyphenol-based treatments can be applied at an early opportunity.

Study leader Dr Giulio Maria Pasinetti added: "For Alzheimer's disease patients who have already progressed into the initial stages of the disease, early intervention with this treatment might be beneficial as well."

Last month, the UK government announced plans to dedicate improved funding to studies of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's, via the new Route Map for Dementia Research scheme.