Hope for Alzheimers Disease

Ivanhoe Newswire

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(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- A dramatic new video documents rapid improvement of language function of Alzheimers patients within minutes of using a new immune-based therapy.

Difficulty finding words is only one of many heartbreaking symptoms of advancing Alzheimers disease. In this latest study, researchers focused on the effect of the drug, etanercept (Enbrel), on measures of verbal ability. Documented on video, researchers found many patients, within minutes, saw dramatic improvement of their language function.

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Etanercept is an anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) drug. TNF-alpha -- a critical component of the brains immune system -- normally finely regulates the transmission of neural impulses in the brain. In this study, researchers used a perispinal delivery method to deliver etanercept to reduce elevated levels of TNF-alpha.

"There are limitations to the data presented, Edward Tobinick, M.D., lead author of the study, was quoted as saying. The clinical trial was open label, and not controlled. These caveats notwithstanding, the scientific rationale for the further investigation of anti-TNF-alpha treatment of Alzheimer's disease is compelling. In addition, family members, independent neurologists, and other independent observers have confirmed the clinical, cognitive, and behavioral improvement noted".

Researchers say these results provide preliminary evidence that the disrupted neural communication seen in Alzheimer's disease may be reversible.

SOURCE: Journal of Neuroinflammation, 2008;8:27

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