In the case of dementia, deposits form in the brain that lead to a deterioration of mental abilities. © Heiko Wolfraum/dpa/dpa-tmn
So far, the course of the nerve disease dementia can only be slowed down. A new treatment approach offers hope for being able to stop it.
Fulda – A dementia illness, where various mental abilities deteriorate compared to the past, is classified among neurodegenerative diseases. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of irreversible dementia. Up to now, disturbances in the brain can only be slowed down but not stopped. However, a new treatment approach by scientists from the USA offers hope, writes 24vita.de.
Stopping dementia: Researchers discover new treatment method
The research team led by Scott Selleck, a professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at the Eberly College of Science in Pennsylvania, investigated a protein component in the brain that can trigger the nerve disease. The trigger is believed to be an abnormal accumulation of proteins in and around brain cells. This could disrupt the breakdown process in brain cells and lead to the formation of the so-called plaques. Plaques are deposits in the brain that are linked to dementia.
In the journal iScience, the researchers report a new treatment approach for dementia. This could already affect the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. According to Selleck, the scientists are interested in understanding “the earliest cellular changes, not only in Alzheimer’s but also in other neurodegenerative diseases.” The results of their discovery offer hope as they point to a promising target for future treatments. With these, the earliest anomalies occurring in neurodegenerative diseases could be treated and improved.
Reduce dementia and Alzheimer’s risk through diet: Protect your brain with twelve foods
View photo series
Stopping dementia: Medications against Alzheimer’s
In the USA, there are already approved medications containing the active ingredients Lecanemab or Donanemab, which are to be used in patients showing early signs of Alzheimer’s. These antibody drugs target the so-called B-amyloids, which are responsible for the typical deposits in the brain associated with dementia. Both substances have already shown similarly good medical results: The deterioration of patients with dementia could be slowed down by medications containing Donanemab by an average of 22 percent – and by 60 percent in patients who took the medication at an early stage.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment, or medication. It does not replace a visit to the doctor. Individual questions regarding medical conditions cannot be answered by our editorial team.
Emerging Trends in Dementia Research and Treatment
Recent advancements in dementia research present exciting possibilities that may reshape the future of treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. Scientists from the University of Pennsylvania have uncovered a new approach aimed at addressing the underlying causes of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, which remains the most prevalent form of irreversible dementia. Traditional treatments have focused on slowing the decline in mental function, but this innovative research hints at the potential for stopping the disease progression altogether.
New Understanding of Protein Accumulation
The research led by Scott Selleck delves into the role of abnormal protein accumulations around brain cells, known as plaques, which are linked to cognitive decline. The study published in iScience emphasizes the importance of understanding these early cellular changes, not just in Alzheimer’s but across various neurodegenerative diseases. This foundational knowledge could pave the way for novel therapeutic interventions designed to rectify these early anomalies.
Hope Through Medication
Currently, medications like Lecanemab and Donanemab are being employed in the United States, targeting the B-Amyloids responsible for plaque formation in the brain. Preliminary results indicate that these treatments can significantly slow disease progression, with improvements observed in patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s. As these medications continue to mature through clinical trials, they may revolutionize how we approach Alzheimer’s treatment in clinical settings, moving from palliative care to a more proactive remediation of symptoms.
Dietary Influence on Cognitive Health
Moreover, multitude of studies suggest that dietary choices may play a critical role in modulating the risk of developing dementia. Incorporating certain foods, such as avocados and leafy greens, into one’s diet has shown promise in protecting brain health. This potential intersection of nutrition science and neurodegenerative disease prevention opens up new avenues for public health initiatives aimed at reducing dementia incidence through lifestyle education.
The Future of Dementia Care
As research continues to evolve, the integration of pharmacological advancements with proactive health measures, including diet and early intervention strategies, is likely to dominate the future landscape of dementia care. The next decade could see a paradigm shift, emphasizing prevention and early treatment, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for those at risk of or living with dementia.