Core Viewpoint - The research highlights the significant role of lithium in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that lithium deficiency may be a key driver in the early stages of the disease, and proposes potential therapeutic interventions involving lithium supplementation [6][12][16]. Group 1: Alzheimer's Disease Overview - Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by severe cognitive impairment, with approximately 60% to 80% of dementia cases attributed to it [1]. - The disease's pathology includes the accumulation of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques and tau protein tangles, leading to memory and cognitive decline [1][3]. Group 2: Role of Metals in Alzheimer's Disease - Abnormal accumulation of metals such as iron, copper, and zinc in the brains of Alzheimer's patients has been observed, contributing to oxidative stress and promoting Aβ deposition [4][17]. - Lithium, a less studied metal in this context, has shown potential protective effects against Alzheimer's, with lower levels found in the brains of patients [5][6]. Group 3: Lithium's Mechanism and Research Findings - A study published in Nature confirmed that lithium levels decrease in the brains of Alzheimer's patients, and its deficiency can lead to the activation of GSK3β, exacerbating Aβ accumulation and tau phosphorylation [6][11]. - Animal models demonstrated that lithium supplementation could restore memory function and reduce pathological features associated with Alzheimer's [6][10]. Group 4: Potential Therapeutic Approaches - The research identified lithium as a potential intervention for Alzheimer's, with a specific focus on a lithium compound called lithium lactate, which showed promise in reducing Aβ plaques and tau pathology in mouse models [13][16]. - The study emphasizes the need for further clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of lithium supplementation in humans [16]. Group 5: Dietary Sources and Implications - Dietary sources of lithium include leafy greens, nuts, legumes, and certain mineral waters, suggesting that a diet rich in these foods may help mitigate dementia risk [16].
给大脑补“锂”后，丢失的记忆力奇迹般恢复了