July 1, 2016 by
At Home Independent Living, a Syracuse home care agency, believes there’s never been a more intriguing time in the world of Alzheimer’s research than the present, and new developments seem to be occurring every time we turn around. The most recent discoveries are expected to be of major importance in the search for treatments and possibly even a cure: the interrelationship of Alzheimer’s and the body’s immune response to infections.
While researchers have been connecting the dots between the beta amyloid protein and Alzheimer’s, the newest bend in the road to a cure comes from the realization that this protein is showing the ability to fend off infections in mice. Some drug trials have tried to get rid of this bacteria-fighting protein, which could be dangerous if beta amyloid works similarly in humans.
If this thesis is correct, it follows that Alzheimer’s is probably sparked by an over-reactive immune response to a pathogen, causing a senior’s brain to be overloaded with issues that it cannot handle.
Although currently inconclusive, the findings correspond with what we already know about the importance of a healthy diet, exercise, and proper sleep. Now these items could even help with the prevention of Alzheimer’s. It also paves the way for other possible treatment options, such as inflammatory reduction medications and vaccines.
Our Syracuse home care agency strives to provide the highest possible quality care for those with Alzheimer’s disease, providing relief to the families who care for them. You can reach us online any time, or by calling us at 315-579-4663 to learn more about our specialized Alzheimer’s care, or other in-home care services.