Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jun 18, 2024 1 week, 6 days, 6 hours, 14 minutes ago
COVID-19 News: The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has not only affected our respiratory systems but also has serious implications for our brain health. Recent studies reveal a potential link between COVID-19 and the exacerbation of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). This connection raises concerns about the long-term neurological effects of COVID-19, especially in elderly populations. This
COVID-19 News report is based on a study by researchers from Russia on ways to deal with SARS-CoV-2 induced accumulation of amyloids in the brain.
Strategies to Combat COVID-19-Linked Brain Amyloids and Dementia/Alzheimer
COVID-19 and Brain Health
COVID-19 is primarily known as a severe respiratory disease, but its effects extend far beyond the lungs. Up to 30% of COVID-19 patients report neurological symptoms, including memory loss, cognitive impairment, fatigue, brain fog, and insomnia, even long after the infection has cleared. This phenomenon, known as "long COVID," suggests that the virus has a lasting impact on the brain.
The Role of Amyloids
One of the most alarming discoveries is that SARS-CoV-2 can stimulate the accumulation of amyloids in the brain. Amyloids are toxic proteins that are typically associated with Alzheimer’s disease. These proteins can cause severe damage to neural cells, leading to cognitive decline and dementia. The exact mechanism by which COVID-19 accelerates amyloid accumulation is still under investigation, but it is clear that the virus exacerbates existing conditions in the brain, potentially speeding up the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Meningeal Lymphatic Vessels: The Brain's Cleanup Crew
Our brain has a natural system for removing toxins, including amyloids, known as the meningeal lymphatic vessels (MLVs). These vessels help drain harmful substances from the brain. However, COVID-19 appears to disrupt this process, leading to an accumulation of amyloids. Researchers are now focusing on enhancing MLV function as a potential strategy to combat COVID-19-related brain damage and prevent the progression of dementia.
Promising Treatments and Therapies
-Photobiomodulation (PBM)
Photobiomodulation is a therapy that uses light to stimulate cells and improve brain function. It has shown promise in reducing neuroinflammation and enhancing brain drainage, helping to clear amyloids from the brain. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recognized PBM as a safe treatment, and ongoing research is exploring its potential benefits for Alzheimer's patients.
Photobiomodulation works by increasing the production of nitric oxide (NO) in the brain, which helps improve blood flow and reduce inflammation. By enhancing the function of MLVs, PBM can facilitate the removal of amyloids and other toxins from the brain, potentially slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
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-Plasmalogens
Plasmalogens are a type of phospholipid found in the brain that play a crucial role in maintaining brain health. They help protect cell membranes, support myelination, and facilitate neurotransmitter release. Studies have shown that plasmalogen levels decrease with age and are significantly lower in individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Supplementing plasmalogens could help restore brain function and slow the progression of Alzheimer's.
Plasmalogens are known for their antioxidant properties, which can help protect brain cells from oxidative stress. They also play a role in reducing neuroinflammation and promoting the repair of damaged neurons. Research suggests that increasing plasmalogen levels in the brain could improve cognitive function and memory in Alzheimer's patients.
-Natural Compounds
Nature offers a variety of compounds that can help in the fight against Alzheimer's. Curcumin, found in turmeric, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Piperine, an alkaloid in black pepper, enhances the absorption of curcumin, making it more effective. Ginkgo biloba, Bacopa monnieri, Salvia officinalis, and Melissa officinalis (lemon balm) are other herbs known for their cognitive benefits. These natural remedies can help reduce oxidative stress, improve memory, and support overall brain health.
1. Curcumin and Piperine
Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has been shown to disaggregate tau proteins and target amyloid plaques, which are key factors in the development of Alzheimer's disease. Piperine enhances the bioavailability of curcumin, making it more effective. Studies have found that curcumin, when taken with piperine, significantly improves cognitive function and reduces the risk of Alzheimer's.
2. Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is widely used for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It contains flavonoids and terpenoids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Ginkgo biloba has been shown to improve blood flow to the brain, reduce oxidative stress, and inhibit the formation of amyloid plaques. Regular use of Ginkgo biloba can help maintain cognitive function and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
3. Bacopa Monnieri
Bacopa monnieri is a nootropic herb that has been used for centuries to treat neurological conditions. It contains bacosides, which have been shown to improve synaptic transmission and protect neurons from damage. Bacopa monnieri also has antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and improve cognitive function.
4. Salvia Officinalis
Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, contains polyphenolic compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Sage has been shown to improve memory and cognitive function by enhancing cholinergic transmission and reducing amyloid plaques. It also has anxiolytic properties, which can help reduce anxiety and improve overall brain health.
5. Melissa Officinalis
Melissa officinalis, or lemon balm, has sedative, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory effects. It has been shown to inhibit acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for memory and learning. Lemon balm also has antioxidant properties that protect brain cells from damage and improve cognitive function.
The Future of Alzheimer's Treatment
The link between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease highlights the need for new and effective treatments for dementia. While traditional pharmacological therapies have shown limited effectiveness, alternative approaches such as photobiomodulation, plasmalogen supplementation, and natural compounds offer promising potential. These therapies can help reduce neuroinflammation, improve brain drainage, and protect neurons from damage, ultimately slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Conclusion
The connection between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease is a stark reminder of the far-reaching impact of the virus. As researchers continue to explore the mechanisms behind this link, it is clear that COVID-19 can exacerbate neurological conditions and accelerate cognitive decline. Innovative therapies like photobiomodulation, plasmalogen supplementation, and natural compounds offer hope for mitigating these effects and improving the quality of life for those affected. As we navigate the long-term consequences of the pandemic, these strategies could become crucial tools in our fight against dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed journal: Pharmaceuticals.
https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/17/6/788
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