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Experimental treatment uses stem cell vesicles, reduces signs of neuroinflammation, and rekindles scientific expectation about less invasive therapies
A new nasal spray against Alzheimer’s developed by researchers at Texas A&M University, in the United States, gained prominence after showing promising results in tests with mice. The technology uses extracellular vesicles derived from stem cells to reduce neuroinflammation processes linked to brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases. The experimental treatment was created to preserve cognitive functions and delay the progression of decline associated with dementia. Nevertheless, the researchers emphasize that the results are still in the pre-clinical phase, as human trials have not yet begun.
Nasal spray targets inflammation linked to Alzheimer’s
The research focuses efforts on combating neuroinflammation, identified as one of the factors associated with the worsening of Alzheimer’s. Initially, brain immune system cells, such as microglia and astrocytes, help remove toxic proteins from the brain. As the disease progresses, this response can become excessive and affect healthy neurons, which intensifies damage related to memory and reasoning. The nasal spray was developed to try to control this inflammatory reaction and create a less invasive alternative to act on brain mechanisms involved in the disease.
Tests in mice indicate cognitive improvement
In laboratory tests, scientists applied two doses of the treatment to mice genetically modified to develop signs similar to Alzheimer’s. After that, the animals underwent behavioral and cognitive assessments over several weeks. The analyses indicated a reduction in brain inflammation and a slowdown in the accumulation of harmful proteins associated with the disease. The study was published in the Journal of Extracellular Vesicles and has already been patented in the United States. This result places the technology among the research seeking simpler and more targeted neurological therapies.
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Nasal application seeks to facilitate treatment
The nasal application represents one of the differentiators of the technology developed in Texas. This method is considered simpler and less invasive than other approaches used in neurological treatments. The strategy also attempts to overcome one of the greatest challenges of brain medicine: delivering therapeutic substances to the brain efficiently and with less complexity of application. Other scientific groups are also investigating experimental nasal sprays against neurodegenerative diseases, including studies with monoclonal antibodies applied nasally in patients with Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, ALS, and long Covid.
Initial projections speak of a possible delay of the disease
Researchers believe that if the results are confirmed in humans, the treatment could significantly delay the progression of Alzheimer’s. Some initial projections mention the possibility of delaying the development of the disease by up to 15 years. Experts, however, urge caution. Courtney Kloske, director of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer’s Association, states that animal studies help understand the biology of the disease. Only clinical trials in humans can confirm safety, efficacy, and real benefit for patients.
Dementia is growing and increasing the urgency for new therapies
Currently, Alzheimer’s accounts for about 70% of dementia cases worldwide. The global expectation is that the number of people with dementia will exceed 152 million by 2050, driven by population aging. This scenario increases the search for therapies capable of delaying cognitive decline, but any promise of a cure needs to be treated rigorously, as the nasal spray is still in the experimental phase.
The future of Alzheimer’s research
The technology developed by Texas A&M University reinforces a scientific trend towards less invasive treatments more targeted to the brain. The study also shows how neuroinflammation has gained importance in Alzheimer’s and dementia research. Scientists continue to evaluate whether the response observed in mice can be replicated in humans.
Could a nasal spray change the future of Alzheimer’s and dementia treatment?
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