Alzheimer’s treatment advances with two cancer drugs

Two FDA-approved cancer drugs have shown the potential to reverse brain damage caused by Alzheimer's in mice, offering new hope for a disease that currently has no cure.

Breakthrough in Alzheimer’s Treatment with FDA-Approved Cancer Drugs

Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco and the Gladstone Institutes have found potential new treatments for Alzheimer's disease using two existing FDA-approved cancer drugs, letrozole and irinotecan. These drugs reduce tau protein clumps in mouse models, a characteristic feature of Alzheimer's, and enhance cognitive functions like memory and learning.

This development reflects a shift towards repurposing existing medications, a strategy that could expedite treatment options for Alzheimer's. With over 55 million people affected worldwide, and no cure in sight, the prospect of these cancer drugs providing relief is not just promising; it’s needed. If these findings hold true in human trials, we might see a revolution in how Alzheimer's disease is approached, potentially saving millions from the grips of cognitive decline.

Highlights

As research progresses, hope remains for millions affected by Alzheimer’s.