Alzheimer's research shifts focus to myelin and new slowing therapies

New research and therapeutic developments are offering fresh perspectives on the progression of Alzheimer's disease. At the CIC biomaGUNE research center, scientists are investigating the role of myelin, the insulating layer surrounding neurons. Lead researcher Jordi Llop suggests that myelin damage may occur during the early stages of the disease, potentially slowing down electrical impulses and affecting brain circuit function. This study moves beyond the traditional focus on beta-amyloid and tau proteins to see if protecting or repairing myelin could preserve brain function.

In clinical practice, the Vithas Xanit Internacional Hospital has introduced new intravenous treatments, donanemab and lecanemab, aimed at patients in the early stages of mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia. According to neurologist Dr. José Antonio Reyes, these drugs represent a milestone as they are among the first capable of targeting biological mechanisms to partially slow the disease's progression. By removing beta-amyloid protein from the brain, these treatments aim to reduce tissue degeneration and extend a patient's period of independence and quality of life.