In a dementia condition, deposits occur in the brain that lead to a decline in mental abilities. © Heiko Wolfraum/dpa/dpa-tmn
So far, the progression of the nerve disease dementia can at best be slowed down. A new treatment approach offers hope of being able to stop it.
Fulda – A dementia condition, where various mental abilities decline compared to earlier, belongs to the group of neurodegenerative diseases. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of irreversible dementia. Until now, brain disorders 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, professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at the Eberly College of Science in Pennsylvania, investigated a protein building block 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 the brain cells, leading to the so-called plaques. Plaques are deposits in the brain that are associated with dementia.
In the journal iScience, researchers report on a new treatment approach for dementia. This could already be effective in 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 provide hope, as they point to a promising target for future treatments. With these, the earliest anomalies that occur in neurodegenerative diseases could be treated and improved.
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Stopping Dementia: Medications Against Alzheimer’s
In the USA, medications containing the active ingredients Lecanemab or Donanemab have already been approved, intended for patients who show early signs of Alzheimer’s. These antibody drugs target so-called beta-amyloids, which are responsible for the typical deposits in the brain associated with dementia. Both active ingredients have already shown similarly good medical results: the worsening of dementia was slowed by an average of 22 percent with Donanemab— and by 60 percent in patients who took the medication in the early stages.
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The Future of Dementia Treatment: Promising Trends Ahead
Recent advancements in medical research are paving the way for potential breakthroughs in the treatment of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. With neurodegenerative diseases affecting millions globally, scientists are increasingly focused on not just slowing down the progression but also on halting it altogether. A new treatment method developed by a team at the Eberly College of Science in Pennsylvania has sparked hope by targeting specific protein accumulations in the brain associated with dementia.
Understanding the Underlying Mechanisms
The researchers, led by Professor Scott Selleck, are investigating how abnormal protein formations disrupt neuronal function and contribute to the formation of plaques linked with cognitive decline. By identifying and addressing these cellular changes, there is potential for early intervention in Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases, which could improve patients’ quality of life significantly.
Exciting Breakthroughs in Medication
In addition to novel treatment strategies, new medications like Lecanemab and Donanemab are already making waves in the United States. These antibody therapies aim to target B-Amyloid proteins, which are key contributors to plaque formation in the brain. Clinical studies show that these medications can slow cognitive decline by up to 60% when administered in the early stages of the disease, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
Preventative Measures: The Role of Diet
Moreover, studies suggest that lifestyle choices, especially dietary habits, can significantly impact the risk of developing dementia. A diet rich in specific brain-boosting foods is being recommended as a preventive measure. This holistic approach not only aims to prevent the onset of the disease but also facilitates a healthier brain environment, potentially prolonging cognitive health even in at-risk individuals.
The Path Ahead
As researchers delve deeper into understanding the cellular mechanics of dementia, the future holds great promise. With ongoing research targeting the root causes of these conditions and the development of innovative treatment options, we may be on the cusp of transforming dementia care and improving outcomes for millions affected by this challenging disease.