Research has revealed that lithium deficiency may trigger Alzheimer's disease

• Lithium deficiency may promote the development of Alzheimer's disease.
• Last year, the rat model showed promising results in treating mice.
• Essential clinical trials are needed to confirm the effectiveness of lithium in humans.

New research has shown that a deficiency of the metal lithium may be an important factor that promotes the development of dementia in patients with Alzheimer's disease. This discovery, which has been ongoing for nearly a decade, was published in the journal Nature. Researchers from Harvard Medical School found that a lack of lithium in the brain is one of the first changes that lead to the development of Alzheimer's disease.

Lithium, which is naturally present in the brain, plays a critical role in maintaining normal cell functions, preventing nerve degeneration. According to the research, lowered levels of lithium may be associated with its connection to amyloid plaques, which are hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease.

Researchers also noted that a new type of lithium compound - lithium orotate - may eliminate the connection with amyloid plaques and restore memory in mice. In experiments where mice were given lithium orotate, a reduction in amyloid plaques and an improvement in memory were observed.

Research has revealed that lithium may be important for supporting brain health, while its deficiency may lead to inflammation and worsening memory. Researchers emphasize that essential further clinical trials on humans are needed to confirm these results.

This new data promotes a new approach to early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of Alzheimer's disease, which affects nearly 400 million people worldwide. Understanding lithium levels may become an important tool for identifying early signs of the disease.

Tags: Research