Scientists Intrigued by Old Drug That Reverses Signs of Alzheimers in Mice

Published: Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 6:30 pm

Existing Drug Shows Promise in Reversing Alzheimer's Signs in Mice

A team of Japanese researchers has made a significant breakthrough in Alzheimer's disease research, demonstrating that an existing drug could potentially reverse the disease's effects in mice. The study, published in *Neurochemistry International*, focuses on the amino acid arginine, a compound already used to treat high blood pressure.

The researchers found that administering oral doses of arginine to mice with amyloid-beta buildup, a protein associated with Alzheimer's, suppressed the aggregation of these proteins. Amyloid-beta proteins are known to clump together and form plaques in the brain, considered a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. The study showed that arginine could help break apart these plaques.

In addition to reducing the buildup, the mice treated with arginine exhibited improved behavior and cognitive performance. This was assessed through tests measuring their navigation skills in a maze, indicating a potential reversal of some of the disease's harmful effects.

The researchers are optimistic about the potential of arginine as a therapeutic option for Alzheimer's. They highlight that arginine is already known to be clinically safe and inexpensive, making it a promising candidate for rapid translation into clinical trials.

The study's findings add to a growing body of research exploring new avenues for treating Alzheimer's. Other recent studies have explored the use of nanoparticles and synthetic peptides to reverse the disease's progression. However, the exact role of amyloid-beta in the brain remains a subject of ongoing research.

BNN's Perspective:

While the results are encouraging, it's crucial to approach this research with cautious optimism. The fact that an existing, safe, and affordable drug shows promise is a positive development. However, the transition from animal studies to human trials is a significant hurdle, and further research is needed to determine the efficacy and safety of arginine in treating Alzheimer's in humans. The focus on amyloid-beta, while a key aspect of the disease, also underscores the need for a broader understanding of Alzheimer's complex mechanisms.

Keywords: Alzheimer's disease, arginine, amyloid-beta, mice, drug, treatment, cognitive function, plaques, clinical trials, neurochemistry, Japan, research

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