New compound shows potential for reversing Alzheimer’s symptoms

New US research has shown the potential of a new method of reversing the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease in mouse models.

The molecular compound, created by Saint Louis University, was shown to be able to restore learning, memory and appropriate behaviour in animal test subjects, while also reducing inflammation in the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory.

This particular antisense compound functions by blocking the translation of RNA, which triggers a process that keeps excess amyloid beta protein from being produced, helping to prevent the formation of plaques found in the brains of Alzheimer's patients.

Before the agent can be tested in human clinical trials it will need to undergo toxicity testing, but the early results from these studies are full of promise.

Dr Susan Farr, research professor of geriatrics at Saint Louis University, said the findings "suggest that an antisense that targets the precursor to amyloid beta protein is a potential therapy to explore to reversing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease".

Alzheimer's is the most common type of dementia and affects almost 500,000 people in the UK. It is most common in people over the age of 65 and affects slightly more women than men.