A natural remedy derived from a plant compound for the
treatment of Alzheimer's disease is nearing clinical trials in humans. Since
the plant (Ashwagandha) is considered food safe by the FDA (a.k.a., GRAS
(Generally Regarded as Safe), the timeline for testing will be significantly
reduced.
The early progression of Alzheimer's disease starts when a
certain protein breaks apart leading to plaque formation known as BAP. This
obstruction ultimately kills brain cells in the frontal lobe thereby erasing
memories as it progresses onto other parts of the brain. According to chemist
Muraleedharan Nair of Michigan State University, "Our studies have shown
that withanamides effectively protect the brain cells by neutralizing the
effect of BAP." Nair's compound accomplishes this by blocking the
protein's access to neurons where the damage occurs.
No comments:
Post a Comment