Anti-Alzheimer's / Memory Booster Pill Might Be Coming Soon

Scientists may be on the verge of creating a drug that reverses Alzheimer's syndrome and dramatically boosts the memory. New research has identified a powerful gene in mice that gives them "super memory" powers and fights off the negative effects of several degenerative mental illnesses, including Alzheimer's.

Mice brains and human brains are surprisingly similar so some in the scientific community believe a drug could be developed based on harnessing the power of this brain-boosting super gene. Researchers found that it blocks the release of a another gene -- called PKR -- that triggers the beginning of Alzheimer's disease. Aside from protecting the brain it appears to greatly increase the memory recall abilities of mice.

 According to lead researcher Maura Costa-Mattioli:

 "If we were to find an inhibitor, a molecule, a drug that will specifically block PKR, we should be able to do the same [in humans]... And we did. We recognize that PKR plays a dual role, one in regulating simple everyday processes like the way neurons talk to each other [for] memory, but also has a stress response." 

 We say: It seems like by now they should have Alzheimer's cured or at least "contained". And we would LOVE a pharmaceutical memory booster that really works. So get it done science geeks!!

Learn some mo': Could this be the cure for Alzheimer's? Scientists say memory-boosting pill could be coming soon

Insulin Nasal Spray Slows Down Alzheimer's

A special insulin delivery system may help to slow down the progress of Alzheimer's disease in some people, according to a new study from the University of Washington. Researchers have developed an insulin nasal spray that appears to improve memory and protect cognition in people with Alzheimer's or "mild cognitive impairment".

In recent years researchers have found a strong connection between insulin resistance (which causes type 2 diabetes) and the development of Alzheimer's disease. For some reasons the brains of Alzheimer's patients don't have enough insulin hormone or aren't able to metabolize insulin that is present. But giving insulin via the normal methods -- such as injection -- does not solve the problem and can actually be very risky.

The new spray delivers insulin close to the brain by inserting it into the sinus cavity. From there it is able to travel along nerve cells and reach the brain with 20 minutes. The researchers said they were surprised that so many study participants benefited from the medication (most Alzheimer's treatments only work for a small percentage of patients).

Experts warn, however, that it will take some time and much more research before a consumer product is available to the public.

Learn some mo': Insulin nasal spray may slow Alzheimer's

Appetite Hormone Fights Alzheimer's

Leptin, the powerful hormone that controls your appetite, may help protect your brain against Alzheimer's disease. Researchers from Boston University just found that people with high levels of leptin, which is produced by your fat cells, have a much lower risk of developing Alzheimer's/dementia. Leptin is already being studied a lot due to it's ability to control hunger and possibly help solve the obesity problems in the US and other countries. It appears to also benefit brain function and memory. Experts believe that a drug based on leptin could be developed to help prevent or at least delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease. It's important to note that older studies already showed that middle-aged people who are obese have a significantly greater risk of developing dementia later in life. So, until they come up with the "miracle" leptin drug, regular exercise and healthy diet appear to be (once again) the best formula for living a long, healthy life!

Learn some mo': Hormone linked to appetite 'could offer hope to prevent Alzheimer’s disease'

Tags: leptin, Alzheimer's