Ibuprofen against Alzheimer's: New findings for research!

Ibuprofen against Alzheimer's: New findings for research!

The latest results from a joint study by SRH University and Saarland University shed new light on the complex role of ibuprofen in connection with Alzheimer's disease and lipid metabolism in the brain. While around 55 million people worldwide suffer from dementia, including many with Alzheimer's, research shows a complex influence of this widely used painkiller on brain chemistry.

The research shows that ibuprofen can have both protective and potentially undesirable effects on the health of brain cells. In particular, it was analyzed how ibuprofen affects lipid classes in the brain that are important in Alzheimer's research. Results of the study show that ibuprofen increases levels of phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin, membrane lipids whose levels are typically reduced in Alzheimer's patients. These lipids are crucial for maintaining cellular health.

Double-edged effect of ibuprofen

However, the study also shows that ibuprofen causes an increase in triacylglycerides while reducing plasmalogen levels. Plasmalogens play a key role in protecting cells from oxidative stress, and their levels are already reduced in Alzheimer's patients. These findings illustrate an ambiguous effect of the drug: While positive effects on brain fats are found, there are also worrying changes that could potentially be counterproductive.

Previous research into whether ibuprofen can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease has produced mixed results. Nevertheless, the new findings could open up promising therapeutic approaches for the targeted use of the positive effects while at the same time avoiding the negative consequences. The results could be particularly valuable for the prevention of Alzheimer's disease, whether through drug or nutritional measures.

Another aspect of Alzheimer's research lies in early detection. Some researchers, including Patrick McGreer of Aurin Biotech, believe that ibuprofen could help potentially prevent the disease through targeted interventions early in life. A simple saliva test to identify beta-amyloid levels could open up new avenues here.

Early detection and intervention

McGreer has developed a saliva test that involves measuring amyloid beta protein 42 (Abeta42), which is known to accumulate in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. A teaspoon of saliva is enough to predict the risk of Alzheimer's. If Abeta42 levels are elevated, daily ibuprofen is recommended to potentially significantly reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Such tests should ideally begin at the age of 55. However, scientists like Dan Brown of the Alzheimer Society are raising concerns. The results of clinical studies on Alzheimer's drugs so far are disappointing. The new research could still be pioneering, although the exact dosages of ibuprofen are not specified and side effects must be taken into account.

In summary, the current study on the role of ibuprofen not only demonstrates its potential influence on Alzheimer's disease, but also shows the need for further, more comprehensive studies. The findings could provide important inspiration for future treatment options that aim to maximize the positive effects of ibuprofen and minimize any risks. Further studies are needed to determine how ibuprofen can be used safely and effectively in Alzheimer's prevention.

For detailed information about the study results and further perspectives in Alzheimer's research, please also visit uni-saarland.de, beingpatient.com and apotheke-adhoc.de.