Cancer drug improves symptoms of Alzheimer's in mice, study says
Published 9 February 2012
An existing cancer drug seems to improve many of the effects of Alzheimer's disease in mice, a study published in the journal Science has found.
Researchers in Ohio found the drug bexarotene was effective in increasing levels of the protein ApoE, which in turn sped up the clearance of amyloid-beta, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. They also discovered that the drug quickly improved memory deficits and behaviour. This supports previous research which has shown that ApoE helps clear amyloid plaques in the brain.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
'This exciting study could be the beginning of a journey towards a potential new way to treat Alzheimer's disease. However, this is very early days. People with Alzheimer's should not rush to get this drug, as we need much more research to establish if it has benefits for humans.'
'Investigating the added benefits of existing licensed drugs is an innovative approach in our fight against the condition, and one which Alzheimer's Society is championing through its Drug Discovery programme. This could see new treatments for dementia being developed much sooner.'
Dr Anne Corbett
Research Manager
Alzheimer's Society
Research Reference: Cirrito et al, 'ApoE-Directed Therapeutics Rapidly Clear β-Amyloid and Reverse Deficits in AD Mouse Models', published online in Science on Thursday, 09 February 2012
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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 less than 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
