New Treatments for Alzheimer's on the Horizon

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Forbes

might fight 'tangles' of disease

(HealthDay News) -- New interventions show promise against two different types of brain abnormalities, both of which are implicated in the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease.

A drug called Dimebon seems to improve cognitive function in both mice and humans but, new research reveals, it actually increases brain levels of beta amyloid, a protein long thought to be a leading culprit in the development of Alzheimer's disease.

Meanwhile, a vaccine has had some effect in reducing the number of tau protein tangles that are also associated with Alzheimer's.

Both studies were to be presented Wednesday at the Alzheimer's Association annual meeting, in Vienna.

Beta amyloid is the main "ingredient" in the amyloid protein plaques that are hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. Drug companies around the world are racing to find compounds that can reduce brain levels of beta amyloid.

The drug used in this study is dimebolin (Dimebon), described in the research abstract as a "retired Russian antihistamine."

Right now, researchers aren't sure what to do with the findings.

"This is a very surprising and unexpected result," said study author Dr. Samuel Gandy, associate director of the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. "Virtually every major pharmaceutical company and many academic labs are working on amyloid-lowering drugs, and along comes the most clinically promising drug ever [at least according to the data published in The Lancet last year], and it actually raises amyloid levels," Gandy said.

"This will definitely tell us something previously unsuspected about either a novel drug target or about amyloid metabolism," Gandy continued. "Unraveling this story will change how we think about Alzheimer's drugs, how we think about amyloid, or both."

It could be that Dimebon neutralizes then expels the excess amyloid from the brain, or that there is actually some benefit to having amyloid outside the neuron as opposed to inside (where it might be more toxic), Gandy postulated.

And it's entirely possible that beta amyloid is not the main culprit in Alzheimer's. "It's not clear that amyloid is what's toxic to the neurons and it may be that Dimebon is mobilizing the stuff to get it out of the system," said Dr. Gary Kennedy, director of geriatric psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City. "Amyloid may be a nasty traveling companion rather than the assassin."

There has been no hint yet that the elevation in beta amyloid levels produces undesirable side effects.

Pharmaceutical companies are working aggressively to move this drug towards a U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval, said Dr. Ralph Nixon, vice chair of the Alzheimer's Association Medical & Scientific Advisory Council.

"Especially if the drug is confirmed to be efficacious in Phase 3 trials, I think this will be a very strong tool to find clues as to what the basic cause of the disease is and some of the factors leading to the development of Alzheimer's," Nixon said. "Some of those factors may be independent of beta amyloid but it's too early to say that. But it certainly raises some interesting thinking about possible other factors that might be targetable as new drug therapies."

A second study found that a vaccine that targets the neurofibrillary "tau" tangles seen in Alzheimer's brains did actually reduce levels of the structure, at least in mice.

Until now, researchers haven't had much success with amyloid immunization or even with previous experiments with tau vaccines, which have caused brain inflammation in past research.

The Israeli researchers immunized mice who had been genetically engineered to develop neurofibrillary tangles with a combination of three phosphorylated-tau peptides, or shortened versions of the protein.

They saw about a 40 percent reduction in the number of tau tangles, with no evidence of brain inflammation.

"There's certainly a great deal of support for tau being very intimately involved with the disease and, although people kind of pit one against the other, I think, at the end of the day, they're going to be relatable through a common mechanism," Nixon said. "We may be beyond the point of thinking it's going to be either/or. It's going to be both and both potentially will be targetable sites."

In related research, scientists from the University of California at Los Angeles and Riverside, along with colleagues from the Human BioMolecular Research Institute, found that a form of.........read all of New Treatments for Alzheimer's

Researchers find possible environmental causes for Alzheimer's, diabetes

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EurekSlert

Contact: Nancy Cawley Jean
njean@lifespan.org
Lifespan

Researchers find possible environmental causes for Alzheimer's, diabetes
Call for reducing nitrate levels in fertilizer and water, detoxifying food and water
Providence, RI – A new study by researchers at Rhode Island Hospital have found a substantial link between increased levels of nitrates in our environment and food with increased deaths from diseases, including Alzheimer's, diabetes mellitus and Parkinson's. The study was published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease (Volume 17:3 July 2009).

Led by Suzanne de la Monte, MD, MPH, of Rhode Island Hospital, researchers studied the trends in mortality rates due to diseases that are associated with aging, such as diabetes, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, diabetes and cerebrovascular disease, as well as HIV. They found strong parallels between age adjusted increases in death rate from Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and diabetes and the progressive increases in human exposure to nitrates, nitrites and nitrosamines through processed and preserved foods as well as fertilizers. Other diseases including HIV-AIDS, cerebrovascular disease, and leukemia did not exhibit those trends. De la Monte and the authors propose that the increase in exposure plays a critical role in the cause, development and effects of the pandemic of these insulin-resistant diseases.

De la Monte, who is also a professor of pathology and lab medicine at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, says, "We have become a 'nitrosamine generation.' In essence, we have moved to a diet that is rich in amines and nitrates, which lead to increased nitrosamine production. We receive increased exposure through the abundant use of nitrate-containing fertilizers for agriculture." She continues, "Not only do we consume them in processed foods, but they get into our food supply by leeching from the soil and contaminating water supplies used for crop irrigation, food processing and drinking."

Nitrites and nitrates belong to a class of chemical compounds that have been found to be harmful to humans and animals. More than 90 percent of these compounds that have been tested have been determined to be carcinogenic in various organs. They are found in many food products, including fried bacon, cured meats and cheese products as well as beer and water. Exposure also occurs through manufacturing and processing of rubber and latex products, as well as fertilizers, pesticides and cosmetics.

Nitrosamines are formed by a chemical reaction between nitrites or other proteins. Sodium nitrite is deliberately added to meat and fish to prevent toxin production; it is also used to preserve, color and flavor meats. Ground beef, cured meats and bacon in particular contain abundant amounts of amines due to their high protein content. Because of the significant levels of added nitrates and nitrites, nitrosamines are nearly always detectable in these foods. Nitrosamines are also easily generated under strong acid conditions, such as in the stomach, or at high temperatures associated with frying or flame broiling. Reducing sodium nitrite content reduces nitrosamine formation in foods.

Nitrosamines basically become highly reactive at the cellular level, which then alters gene expression and causes DNA damage. The researchers note that the role of nitrosamines has been well-studied, and their role as a carcinogen has been fully documented. The investigators propose that the cellular alterations that occur as a result of nitrosamine exposure are fundamentally similar to those that occur with aging, as well as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

De la Monte comments, "All of these diseases are associated with increased insulin resistance and DNA damage. Their prevalence rates have all increased radically over the past several decades and show no sign of plateau. Because there has been a relatively short time interval associated with the dramatic shift in disease incidence and prevalence rates, we believe this is due to.......read all of environmental causes for Alzheimer's, diabetes

Coping with Alzheimer's: Strategies for Caregivers

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Bartersvillelive.com

When you are the caregiver for a family member or loved one with Alzheimer's, everyone relies on you. It takes strategy to cope.

So, the Alzheimer's Association of Oklahoma offers these suggestions to manage the challenges and be an effective caregiver:

1. Manage your stress level.
2. Accept changes as they occur.
3. Make legal and financial plans.
4. Be sure to give yourself credit for all you do, not guilt.

"You cannot be ten people at once or do everything all of the time. It's important for us to acknowledge we are doing a good job, we are doing the best we can," said Ruth Kolb Drew, MS, LPC, Senior Director of Programs at the Alzheimer's Association of Oklahoma. "If we can acknowledge that, then we can get help for all of the things that we need help with."

More help in paying for Alzheimer's care

Higher bone-lead levels associated with dementia

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Environmental Health News

van Wijngaarden, E, JR Campbell and DA Cory-Slechta. 2009. Bone lead levels are associated with measures of memory impairment in older adults.
Synopsis by Kim Harley, Ph.D.


Older adults with higher amounts of lead in their bones exhibit greater memory impairment than adults with low lead levels.


In a study of men and women 55 to 67 years old, higher lead levels were associated with poorer performance on tasks used to assess memory deficits. Poor performance on these same tasks is frequently observed among adults with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Although other studies have found associations between lead exposure and cognitive deficits in older adults, this is the first study to link lead exposure with specific measures of memory impairment that are characteristic of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common form of dementia, the loss of memory serious enough to interfere with normal life. Alzheimer’s Disease affects more than 5 million Americans. The disease is characterized by impaired ability to learn new information or recall old information, as well as other alterations of thinking and behavior.

The causes of Alzheimer’s Disease are unknown. However, some studies suggest that environmental exposures may increase the risk of the disease.

In this study, the researchers measured lead levels in the bones of the shin and heel of 47 volunteers using X-ray fluorescence. Lead levels in bone reflect exposure over several years or even decades.

Individuals with higher bone lead level were...read all of Higher bone-lead levels associated with dementia

Tips for managing the financial cost of caregiving

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curetoday.com

BY ELIZABETH WHITTINGTON

In Hard Times, caregivers learn the cost of cancer caregiving can be both expensive and surprising. Not only do caregivers and patients deal with lost wages, co-pays, and deductibles, but also the hidden costs, such as travel expenses, support services, and special meals, in addition to time spent on researching, coordinating appointments, and endless hours on the phone with insurance companies. Caregivers who don't live with the patient must also factor in time away from work or their own family, possible travel and lodging expenses, and paid help when they are away from the patient.

Here are a few financial tips to get caregivers over the hump:

1. Set up a free website, such as CaringBridge, Lotsa Helping Hands, Share The Care, and the Patient/Partner Project, for your support team (and have them invite their friends and family who can help!) to let them know when you need help with child care, transportation, meals, errands, and other services. Many times people want to help, but they don't know how to ask or what to do. Having a list of needs available to everyone will prevent 15 calorie-rich casseroles on your doorstep the first week.

2. Several organizations offer free or discounted rates for travel and lodging if a patient must travel for treatment. Corporate Angel Network offers free rides for patients traveling to treatment. Joe's House offers discounted hotel rooms, and the American Cancer Society's Hope Lodge offers free lodging for patients and caregivers.

3. Tap into services that help pay for cancer care, such as the Patient Advocate Foundation's Co-Pay Relief and various drug assistance programs.

4. It may take time, but it's worth keeping insurance statements, bills, and medical records organized. Follow a strategy to make sure you're getting the most out of your insurance plan.

5. Take advantage of tax exemptions for cancer expenses, including mileage and transportation costs associated with treatment.

6. It may take some searching online, but there are grants and services available through various local organizations that may help pay for child care, house cleaning, transportation, and other basic needs. Your local hospital and non-profit cancer organizations may also have information on these services.

7. Look into services and grants provided by see all of the tips for managing the financial cost of caregiving

Adult day care: Supporting seniors and their caregivers

ABC News 6



By Eve Glicksman, Staff Writer, myOptumHealth

Ruth knew that something had to change. Her mother, 81, was not getting around as well now, but insisted on living on her own. Ruth looked in on her whenever she could, but worried about her safety and her being alone all day.

Most older adults prefer to stay in their own home for as long as they are able. But what if that person gets confused, has trouble moving about or needs medication reminders?

The surge of older adults living on their own has spurred a demand today for programs to assist them. Many need help with routine tasks, but are not frail enough to need institutional care.

Adult day care is ideal for those who have physical or cognitive challenges, but don't require 24-hour supervision. This might include those in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, people who need help taking medicine or adults who are isolated. The goal is to get the person out of the house and into a safe, supportive group setting.

Varied activities keep participants active, social and mentally alert. An adult day program may provide:

Nutritious meals and snacks
Transportation to and from the center
Health support services (e.g., blood pressure monitoring)
Social events like holiday parties or sing-a-longs
Personal care, such as help with toileting
Recreation and games, including exercise
Functional assistance and therapy
Counseling and support groups for caregivers
These programs may be the best solution for caregivers who don't want to place a loved one in an assisted living facility. Beyond the benefits for the senior, caregivers can get a much-needed break or can care for a relative while holding a job.

Types of adult day care
People in day care must be able to get around on their own or with the help of a cane, walker or wheelchair. In most cases, they must be continent as well. Beyond that, there are three program types to consider.

Social day care is for those who only need minimal help.They are not up to planning activities themselves, but can enjoy organized day trips, group discussions or crafts. Some may come solely for the friends.
Adult day health care provides some of the same activities, plus skilled nursing and rehabilitation for medical problems. A health assessment is required before being admitted, and fees are higher than for a social program.
Specialized day care offers services for groups with specific problems, such as Alzheimer's disease or developmental disabilities.
Adult day programs operates.........read all about adult day care

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Paying For Alzheimer's Care

Brian Willie

The only program of its kind!

Good morning,

A few quick notes:

1. Things have calmed a bit, and now is a good time to look over my
program.

2. Some early words of praise are already starting to come in for
the program and I thought I'd share 2 with you.

----------------------------------------------------------------
1.

Things have finally calmed down a bit over here. Now's a good time
to head over to Paying For Alzheimer's Care and read
all about my program and how it could help you and your family save
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You'll walk away knowing exactly why and how precise
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The average person runs out of their ability to pay privately after just 26 weeks
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You'll also learn exactly what Medicare covers and does not cover and all about
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Plus, I'm also throwing in bonuses from some of the top Alzheimer's and
long-term care experts in the country.

Dr. Vincent Fortanasce for instance, is considered to be one of the
foremost experts on Alzheimer's disease and has developed a program
that can prevent Alzheimer's in 70% of the population, and ward off
Alzheimer's for an extra 10-15 years in people that are genetically
predisposed to it.

He has treated high profile people such as Pope John Paul II and
former LA Dodger's coach Tommy Lasorda, and has appeared on 60
Minutes, CNN, Dr. Phil and many more. He has a syndicated radio
show with a listenership of over 170,000. His book was #1 on
Amazon.com in its category for 9 straight weeks and really struck a
chord with so many people. You won't want to miss this!
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2. Early Words of Praise for "Ultimate Alzheimer's Care Rescue
Program"

"This is the kind of information I
have been needing desperately for 3 yrs or more already, with my
husband being one of the youngest to ever suffer from this dread
disease before the age of 55. I would like to volunteer some time
to being a personal testimony at any promotional meeting
introducing your program. This is a cause I want to take up a
banner for, to assist as many others as possible" Brenda, Austin, TX

"I have only listened to a couple of the recordings so far, and
they seemed quite informative. It is inspiring me to review and
refine my estate documents. The process of downloading the
materials was quite painless and worked perfectly. I have copied
the mp3's to a player for listening. I look forward to finishing
the complete program. Thanks." Michael, Escondido, CA

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You can get all of the information on my program here:Paying For Alzheimer's Care




Warmly,

Brian Willie


Here is a great dementia resource for caregivers and healthcare professinals,

Here is information on being the best caregiver you can be

Here are more interesting dementia articles and activities,