A household herb, rosemary, contains a potent compound that may combat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. A new study by The Scripps Research Institute highlights a treatment derived from rosemary and sage. This development offers hope for Alzheimer’s patients.
The institute engineered carnosic acid, a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties, into a stable derivative. The derivative form, called diAcCA, has shown incredible results in reversing memory loss and reducing neuroinflammation during tests conducted on mice. This amazing breakthrough opens up new, non toxic methods for tackling Alzheimer’s, a disease affecting over 6.9 million Americans and millions worldwide.
The Science Behind the Rosemary Compound for Alzheimer’s
Carnosic acid in its pure form cannot be given as a drug due to instability. Researchers solved this obstacle by synthesizing diAcCA, a stable derivative that remains stable until changed back into carnosic acid in the gut. This conversion process has shown a 20% higher rate of absorption into the bloodstream in this derivative form, compared to pure carnosic acid. This synthesized, stable form enables it to reach the brain within an hour.
The compound targets neuroinflammation, a major cause of Alzheimer’s progression. By activating the enzymes important for the body’s natural defenses, diAcCA boosts the body’s natural defenses against oxidative stress and inflammation. These processes cause synaptic loss and lead to cognitive decline. Notably, diAcCA not only treats inflammation but research has shown to improve memory and synaptic density in the brain.
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Remarkable Results in Mouse Models
In a three-month trial, researchers gave diAcCA three times weekly to mice genetically modified to develop Alzheimer’s-like symptoms. Researchers gave olive oil to the other mouse models. During cognitive and behavioral tests, the treated mice showed not only a regression of inflammation and subsequently treating the conditions of Alzheimers, but restoration of memory.
The behavioral tests done on the mice included navigating water mazes and recalling fear-associated sounds. Their brain tissue analysis revealed increased synaptic density, in which their synapses returned to healthy levels. Researchers also noticed a significant drop in amyloid-beta plaques and phosphorylated tau tangles, proteins associated with causing Alzheimer’s and neuroinflammation. “It didn’t just slow the decline; it improved virtually back to normal,” said Dr. Stuart Lipton, lead researcher and neuroscientist at Scripps. The mice also took to the treatment well, with no toxic effects observed from the derivative.
A Dual Approach to Combat Alzheimer’s
The rosemary compound for Alzheimer’s tackles more than just a one dementia-like disease. Unlike current therapies that only target single proteins like amyloid-beta, diAcCA reduces inflammation and synaptic loss. This multi-faceted approach could enhance the efficacy of existing treatments, such as amyloid antibodies, by reducing inflammatory side effects like brain swelling. Dr. Lipton highlights diAcCA’s potential to work in tandem with other drugs. “It could make existing treatments work better by limiting their side effects” said Dr. Lipton.
Accelerating Toward Human Trials
Carnosic acid is currently deemed as “safe” by the FDA, therefore researchers state it should be fast-tracked to clinical trials so Alzheimer’s patients can receive treatment as soon as possible. Researchers emphasize that diAcCA’s safety profile and oral administration route simplify dosing compared to intravenous therapies. With carnosic acids’ limited potential for adverse side effects, researchers believe diAcCA will possibly save lives without creating serious negative effects, increasing its efficacy tenfold. This is because carnosic acid only activates and affects in parts of the brain that are inflamed.
If human trials show the same results as the mouse trials, this rosemary compound for Alzheimer’s could become one of the first treatments to reverse, rather than merely slowing down, cognitive degenerative diseases and their effects. Beyond Alzheimer’s, the anti-inflammatory properties of diAcCA may benefit other conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Dr. Lipton’s team plans to explore these applications, leveraging the compound’s versatile applications.
Challenges and Next Steps
While the results are promising, researchers warn that mouse models don’t fully emulate human cases of Alzheimer’s. Upcoming clinical trials must confirm diAcCA’s safety and efficacy in humans, a process that could take several years. Additionally, optimizing dosing regimens and long-term effects remain hurdles that researchers are working on. Global urgency surrounds this research, as Alzheimer’s cases in Europe alone are projected to double to 14 million by 2030. The rosemary compound for Alzheimer’s represents a beacon of hope for millions awaiting therapies that address the disease’s root causes rather than just its symptoms.
Conclusion
The transformation of a common kitchen herb into a potential Alzheimer’s therapy presents a significant advancement in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. With its ability to restore synaptic connections, clear toxic proteins, and quell inflammation, diAcCA could redefine treatment paradigms. With instilled optimism, Dr. Lipton’s team prepares for human trials and although it is not yet a proven cure for Alzheimer’s, the results of their research show immense promise. As the scientific community watches closely, they are hopeful that this rosemary compound for Alzheimer’s will deliver on its revolutionary promise.
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