New Study Suggests Senolytics May Slow Alzheimer’s Progression
Despite ongoing research into Alzheimer’s disease, scientists are still searching for effective treatments for patients. One area of interest is senolytics, considered anti-aging medications that show promise in treating various health conditions. Recent research indicates that senolytics could potentially help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, sparking discussions in the scientific community about their effectiveness.
With a range of forms available, including over-the-counter supplements, senolytics are attracting attention. However, neurologists caution against starting these treatments without proper consideration. Experts, such as Clifford Segil, DO, a neurologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center, and Amit Sachdev, MD, MS, the medical director of Neurology at Michigan State University, highlight the importance of informed decision-making.
The study, published in the journal Aging, focused on the role of enzymes near amyloid-beta plaques in Alzheimer’s disease. Compounds like dasatinib and nintedanib, known senolytics, were found to block specific forms of these enzymes associated with the plaques without affecting normal brain enzymes. Computer models revealed that the compounds could target enzymes more effectively due to changes in their structure near the plaques.
Senolytics target senescent cells, often referred to as “zombie cells,” which accumulate with age and contribute to inflammation. These compounds have been used to treat various conditions, from diabetes to rheumatologic diseases. While some senolytics require a prescription, others are available over the counter.
Despite the potential benefits, it’s essential to recognize that the FDA doesn’t tightly regulate senolytics in supplement form. Therefore, caution is advised when considering these treatments, as the actual contents of supplements may not match the label. Further research is needed to determine the full potential of senolytics as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.
“Senolytics could potentially aid in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. While medications aimed at enhancing the function of an aging brain may offer some benefits, they do not address the root cause of brain function decline,” explains Dr. Amit Sachdev, MD, MS, the medical director in the Department of Neurology at Michigan State University. “Alternative strategies are more likely to yield long-term satisfaction.” Segil warns that it is premature to recommend these products, especially prescription drugs, for Alzheimer’s disease. “Using repurposed chemotherapy or pulmonary fibrosis medications as anti-aging treatments instead of their FDA-approved uses could lead to various adverse effects,” he cautions.
