Core Viewpoint - The recent study from Harvard Medical School suggests that lithium deficiency in the brain is linked to cognitive decline and the onset of Alzheimer's disease, indicating that lithium supplementation, specifically lithium orotate, may reverse memory loss and restore brain health [2][6][9]. Group 1: Alzheimer's Disease Overview - Alzheimer's disease (AD) accounts for 60%-80% of dementia cases, affecting approximately 10% of individuals over 65 years old [2]. - Current FDA-approved antibody therapies for AD have limited effectiveness and potential severe side effects, highlighting the need for alternative treatments [2]. Group 2: Lithium's Role in Cognitive Health - Historical context shows lithium was once promoted as a mood enhancer and later recognized as a standard treatment for bipolar disorder, with epidemiological studies suggesting lower dementia rates in areas with trace lithium in drinking water [5]. - The recent study confirms that lithium is naturally present in the brain and plays a crucial physiological role, with lower lithium levels found in areas affected by Alzheimer's compared to unaffected regions [6]. Group 3: Research Findings - The study found that lithium deficiency leads to increased formation of amyloid plaques in mouse models, creating a vicious cycle where lower lithium levels result in more plaque formation, further exacerbating cognitive decline [6][7]. - Lithium orotate was shown to be more effective than lithium carbonate in reversing Alzheimer's-related brain damage and memory loss in mice, potentially explaining inconsistent results in previous clinical trials [6][9]. Group 4: Implications and Future Research - The study did not find toxic effects associated with lithium supplementation, which could simplify future clinical trials for Alzheimer's treatment [9]. - The potential benefits of lithium may extend beyond Alzheimer's, as higher lithium levels were associated with better performance in memory tests among individuals without cognitive impairment [9].
Nature重磅:逆转阿尔茨海默病!补充金属锂,恢复记忆丧失,让大脑回到更年轻、更健康状态
生物世界·2025-08-07 04:02