Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
21 April 2016 14:02
A protein jab could potentially help those with Alzheimer's
A simple protein jab may help Alzheimer's patients of the future, scientists hope.
Glasgow and Hong Kong-based researchers say their "encouraging" study appears to reduce the advance and symptoms of the dementia illness.
The Interleukin 33 (IL-33) protein treatment has already helped to reverse mice cognitive decline. Similar tests on humans are due to start soon.
But scientists believe the process will not be able to help real-life patients for some years.
So how does it work?
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and Glasgow University researchers found that the mice's brain and memory functions sharply improved over just seven days.
Scientists already know that Alzheimer's sufferers have less IL-33 in their brains than non-sufferers.
IL-33 seems to function by mobilising the brain's immune cells to lessen the size and amount of deposits which characterise the disease.
These deposits and brain tangles accumulate and result in severed links between the nerve cells, ultimately leading to brain tissue loss.
In addition, IL-33 inhibits brain tissue inflammation. This is linked with tangles and deposits forming.
Peace of mind at hand
Whether travellers have Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, this should not prevent them or their carers enjoying a holiday abroad.
Alzheimer's-related travel insurance can cover sufferers against the unexpected on their trip.
This includes round-the-clock emergency medical cover and the replacement of lost medication.
What the expert says
Eddy Liew, a Glasgow professor who co-directed the new study, says the results are "encouraging" and "exciting".
But Prof Liew urges caution as scientists are not sure how the findings pertain to Alzheimer's in humans. He says there is so far a significant distance between clinical applications and what was found in the lab.
Prof Liew says that too many false medical industry "breakthroughs" have been announced in the past. This means that robust clinical trials should be carried out first before scientists can breathe out. But he says a good beginning has been made.
The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA has published the findings.
16 April 2019
Heading to Madrid? Here's our guide to six must-see places you should visit in the Spanish capital, from food markets to fine art and plenty in between.
[more...]
10 April 2019
Experience the magic of Madrid's Fiesta de San Isidro 2019! Discover where to stay, what to eat and what to see as you explore one of Spain's greatest festivals.
Experience Seville's intoxicating Feria de Abril and discover Andalucía's most famous festival! Here's your ultimate guide to La Feria.
01 April 2019
Songkran is Thailand's famous New Year's festival - and the world's biggest water fight. Here's everything you need to know before you plan your trip.
Travelling to Thailand? Learn the important local traditions and cultures to ensure you act respectfully in 'The land of a thousand smiles.'
Travelling overseas with young children? Make going through the airport easy and stress-free by following these top tips for surviving the airport with kids when flying.
25 March 2019
Discover the best places to learn to scuba dive! Check out our list of top dive locations around the world that are perfect for scuba diving beginners.
Looking for some late-season skiing? Here are some of the best places for spring skiing in Europe where you can enjoy reliable snow cover.
19 March 2019
Looking for adventure? Create your perfect Scandinavian weekend with these alternative city break ideas.
Lower your blood pressure with these fresh, healthy foods you can add to your diet.
02 March 2019
A Flybe flight was forced to abort take-off due to the cabin filling with "smoke" while it was accelerating along the runway at Exeter Airport.
01 March 2019
Holidaymakers will soon be able to take advantage of the first direct flight from London to Scotland's Western Isles after Loganair announced three new routes.