Alzheimer’s drug demonstrates efficacy against sickle cell anemia
Peer-Reviewed Publication
In honor of Alzheimer's Awareness Month, we’re exploring the science and stories surrounding Alzheimer’s disease.
Updates every hour. Last Updated: 21-Jun-2026 21:16 ET (22-Jun-2026 01:16 GMT/UTC)
Memantine, a long-approved and cost-effective drug used to treat Alzheimer’s disease, could also benefit patients with sickle cell anemia in the future. Initial clinical data from an international research group led by the University of Zurich (UZH) indicate that the active ingredient is well tolerated, reduces symptoms and improves quality of life in people suffering from this genetic disease.
MIT chemists showed they can use nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to decipher the structure of the fuzzy coat that surrounds Tau proteins. The findings may aid efforts to develop drugs that interfere with Tau buildup in the brain.
There are indications that a simple finger-prick blood test could, in the future, detect Alzheimer’s disease long before the first clinical symptoms become apparent. This is shown by research conducted by the European PREDICTOM consortium, in which UZ Brussels and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) are partners. This approach could offer a more accessible and less burdensome alternative to the current, complex diagnostic methods.
A new study led by researchers from the University of Liverpool has found that spikes in blood sugar after meals may increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.