After decades of searching, Harvard researchers may have found a new way to slow Alzheimer’s disease.
New research suggests lithium may influence Alzheimer’s progression
Alzheimer’s disease is among the most feared diagnosis a person can receive. More than 7 million Americans are living with the disease today, and the number is expected to rise as the population ages. It robs people of their memory and ability to manage daily life, while leaving families grappling with what is often called “the long goodbye.”
For decades, researchers have searched for ways to slow or stop the disease, but progress has been lacking. However, a recent discovery at the Harvard Medical School has sparked hope: Lithium, a common element long used in psychiatry, may hold the key to preventing or even reversing Alzheimer’s.
The Harvard team, led by Dr. Bruce Yankner, examined brain tissue from people with and without Alzheimer’s. In healthy brains, lithium was present in regions tied to memory and decision-making, but, in people with mild cognitive impairment and in those with Alzheimer’s, levels were strikingly lower. Even more telling, amyloid plaques, sticky protein clumps that are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s, seemed to trap lithium, binding it away from the places where it could be useful.
Animal studies have supported this link. Mice that were fed a low-lithium diet developed brain changes more quickly, showing more amyloid buildup, inflammation and memory problems. But when scientists restored lithium in a form that avoided plaque binding, the results reflected that memory improved and brain connections strengthened.
Though human trials are still needed, the findings hint that lithium could one day become part of a treatment or prevention strategy for Alzheimer’s.
Lifestyle strategies and early intervention
For caregivers and clinicians currently navigating the realities of Alzheimer’s, the findings offer hope. “We don’t yet know why some people develop Alzheimer’s and others don’t,” said Wendy Hudson Murphy, associate director at Respite Care Charleston. “There is a genetic component, but it is estimated that up to 40% of all dementias could be prevented through lifestyle changes.” She pointed out that anything beneficial for the heart, like controlling diabetes, managing blood pressure, getting adequate sleep and staying active, also benefits the brain.
Regular walking, strength training or simply keeping up with consistent exercise can help lower risk. Murphy explained that maintaining strong relationships with family or friends and participating in mentally stimulating activities help keep the brain sharp. “We are never too old to try something new,” Murphy said. “Learning a new language, practicing art, joining a senior center or even sitting down with others for meals can all add to that resilience.” She added that even someone who has done “everything right” can still develop dementia, but their better overall health makes the course of the disease easier to manage.
Recognizing early warning signs
The beginning signs of Alzheimer’s are deeper than ordinary forgetfulness. Murphy explained that occasionally misplacing keys is normal, but being unable to retrace your steps to find them is more concerning. Getting lost on familiar routes, having trouble managing bills or medications or struggling with math or money can also be warning signs.
She encourages people experiencing moments like these to seek help from a medical professional. Primary care doctors can conduct basic cognitive exams and, if necessary, refer patients to neurologists or neuropsychologists for thorough testing.
Support programs and emerging treatments
At Respite Care Charleston, programs are available for every stage of memory loss. Early on, conversation groups like Senior Moments help people stay engaged and active, while half-day memory care provides structure, therapy and community for those in later stages. Caregiver support is available to help families navigate the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s.
Murphy stressed that early diagnosis is key. New treatments, including recently approved infusion drugs that target and remove amyloid plaques, are not a cure but may slow cognitive decline if they are offered in the earliest stages.
The research results on lithium’s possible role in Alzheimer’s have been notable. While future studies are necessary, the best defense remains familiar: Make healthy choices, move your body, stay socially and mentally engaged and seek medical guidance if you notice troubling changes. Even if lithium proves to be successful in future clinical trials, these core strategies remain an important part of aging.
By Anne Toole
