Short Wave Depression And Alzheimer's Treatments At A Crossroads
Nov 10, 2022
Jon Hamilton, NPR's science correspondent focused on depression and Alzheimer's, discusses pivotal research at the Society for Neuroscience meeting. He highlights a groundbreaking study testing long-held beliefs about Alzheimer's causes. Additionally, he reveals intriguing findings on ketamine's antidepressant effects, which last longer when paired with uplifting video games. This innovative approach, along with promising anti-amyloid drug trials, points toward the evolving landscape of brain disorder treatments. Tune in for insights that could reshape mental health care!
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Alzheimer's and the Amyloid Hypothesis
- The amyloid hypothesis, dominant since the 1980s, suggests Alzheimer's is caused by amyloid plaques.
- Recent drug trials targeting amyloid have yielded mixed results, raising questions about the hypothesis's validity.
Gantanarumab Trial Results
- Dr. Randall Bateman's team tested gantanarumab on individuals with an Alzheimer's-causing gene.
- The drug successfully reduced amyloid plaques but did not improve memory or thinking.
A New Trial for Alzheimer's Prevention
- Dr. Eric McDade is starting a new trial to test the amyloid hypothesis by preventing plaque formation.
- The study targets young adults with genetic predispositions, treating them before symptoms emerge.