Vitamin C found to reduce amyloid plaques in mice with Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers at Lund University in Sweden found mice with Alzheimer's symptoms had reduced amyloid plaques when given vitamin C.

Although present in all brains, a precursor to the protein amyloid-beta is broken down in a different way in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease which can lead to clump formation. Researchers used specific antibodies to investigate very small amounts of chemicals associated with these plaques in thin slices of tissue. Vitamin C was found to influence the formation of the small clumps that can become plaques in the brain that lead to late onset Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This interesting and well-conducted study indicates that vitamin C may be one of several factors that could help prevent the formation of amyloid plaques. However, this is laboratory based research and even exciting new results like these need to be confirmed by more research before we can make recommendations that may change how people live. We still do not understand the underlying causes of dementia and we need more research to help us prevent and treat the condition.'

'Vitamin C is important in preventing many diseases. The best way to reduce your risk of dementia is to eat a varied diet including plenty of fruit and vegetables, which are good sources of vitamin C; as well as exercising regularly.'

Dr Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society

Research Reference: Mani, K. et al. (2011) 'Suppression of Amyloid β A11 Antibody Immunoreactivity by Vitamin C', Journal of Biological Chemistry, Volume 286, Number 31, Friday, 5 August 2011

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Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them 
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk