Core Viewpoint - Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder with no effective treatment to reverse its progression, necessitating urgent action for better therapeutic options [2][3][6]. Group 1: Current State of Alzheimer's Disease - Over 50 million people globally suffer from Alzheimer's or related dementias, with projections indicating this number will double by 2050 [3]. - Annual global spending on Alzheimer's exceeds $1 trillion, making it one of the most costly health issues [3]. - The drug development landscape for Alzheimer's faces significant challenges, with a failure rate of 98% over recent decades [6]. Group 2: Research Findings - A recent study published in Cell identified two FDA-approved cancer drugs, letrozole and irinotecan, that, when used in combination, significantly improved memory and reduced Alzheimer's-related pathology in mouse models [4][17][20]. - The research utilized publicly available data to analyze gene expression changes in neurons and glial cells associated with Alzheimer's, leading to the identification of potential drug candidates [9][11][20]. - The study highlighted the importance of glial cell dysfunction alongside neuronal vulnerability in the disease's heterogeneous pathology [7][8]. Group 3: Methodology and Results - The research team compared gene expression features from Alzheimer's patients with a drug response database, narrowing down 1,300 drugs to 86, then to 10, and finally to 5 promising candidates [10][13]. - The combination therapy of letrozole and irinotecan was shown to reverse multiple Alzheimer's symptoms in mouse models, eliminating toxic protein plaques and restoring memory [17][20]. - The study emphasizes a cell-type directed, multi-target drug discovery strategy based on human data and real-world evidence, paving the way for precision medicine in Alzheimer's treatment [18][20].

Group 1 - The core message emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and understanding of Alzheimer's disease, highlighting that many patients remain undiagnosed for an average of two years despite noticeable symptoms [4][8] - There is a common misconception that memory decline is a normal part of aging, which can lead to delays in seeking medical help [5][6] - Cognitive impairment is defined as a broader concept that includes mild cognitive impairment and dementia, aiming to raise awareness for early intervention [7][8] Group 2 - Not all cognitive impairments are Alzheimer's disease; various types of dementia exist, such as frontotemporal dementia and Lewy body dementia, which require different diagnostic approaches [21][19] - Diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can be complex, as some patients may present atypical symptoms, necessitating comprehensive assessments and advanced imaging techniques like PET scans [22][29] - The article discusses the development of medications that can alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients, although it cannot cure the disease [33][34] Group 3 - Caregivers of Alzheimer's patients face significant challenges and stress, often going unrecognized for their contributions and sacrifices [40][41] - The establishment of support groups and caregiver networks is crucial for providing emotional support and resources to those caring for Alzheimer's patients [49][50] - The article highlights the importance of community involvement and the expansion of caregiver support initiatives across various regions to enhance the well-being of both patients and caregivers [60][62]

Core Viewpoint - The National Health Commission of China has issued notifications prohibiting the use of two surgical procedures: "cervical deep lymphatic vessel/vein anastomosis" for Alzheimer's disease and "jejunum-ileum anastomosis" for type 2 diabetes treatment, due to concerns over their safety and efficacy [1][4][12]. Group 1: Alzheimer's Disease and Surgical Procedure - The "cervical deep lymphatic vessel/vein anastomosis" (LVA) is deemed to be in the early exploratory stage of clinical research, lacking clear indications and contraindications, as well as high-quality evidence supporting its safety and effectiveness [4][10]. - The procedure has been evaluated by experts, who concluded that its application in treating Alzheimer's disease is not supported by sufficient clinical evidence, and it poses potential risks that may outweigh benefits for patients with mild symptoms [9][10]. - The National Health Commission has mandated local health authorities to ensure that medical institutions cease the use of LVA for Alzheimer's treatment and to provide follow-up services for affected patients [11]. Group 2: Type 2 Diabetes and Surgical Procedure - The "jejunum-ileum anastomosis" has been evaluated and found to have uncertain safety and effectiveness for treating type 2 diabetes, with potential severe complications such as liver failure and malnutrition [12][14]. - Although some studies suggest that this procedure may improve blood sugar levels post-surgery, the overall clinical evidence remains limited, and it has not been included in the latest diabetes treatment guidelines [13][14]. - The National Health Commission has instructed health authorities to monitor and regulate the clinical application of this procedure, ensuring that institutions stop its use for diabetes treatment and enhance public health education [14].

Core Insights - The risk of developing Alzheimer's disease significantly increases when the brain is in a state of "extreme aging," with a probability of illness being 12 times higher over the next decade compared to those with a "younger brain" [1] - The mortality risk for individuals with "extremely aged" brains is 182% higher within 15 years, while those with the "youngest brains" experience a 40% reduction in mortality risk [1] - The brain plays a crucial role as a "gatekeeper" in determining health and longevity [1]

Core Insights - Researchers from institutions including the University of California, Los Angeles, published a paper in the journal E-Biomedicine, revealing that Alzheimer's disease has a discernible development trajectory rather than being random [1] Group 1 - The study utilized advanced algorithms such as dynamic time warping and machine learning clustering to analyze electronic health records of nearly 25,000 Alzheimer's patients from the University of California health database [1] - The findings suggest that the occurrence of Alzheimer's disease is not coincidental, indicating a pattern in its progression [1]

Core Insights - The research conducted by the team led by Yao Yonggang and Zhang Dengfeng from the Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, provides new insights into the cellular and molecular pathological changes in the choroid plexus of Alzheimer's disease mice during the early stages of the disease, potentially aiding in the development of early intervention strategies for Alzheimer's disease [1][2] Group 1: Research Findings - The study constructed a single-cell transcriptome map related to the choroid plexus in Alzheimer's disease for the first time, elucidating the cellular and molecular pathological changes in the early stages of the disease [2] - The choroid plexus is composed of various cell types, with epithelial cells accounting for approximately 75% of the total cell population [2] - The permeability of choroid plexus epithelial cells in Alzheimer's disease mice was found to be increased, indicating a compromised barrier function [2] Group 2: Immune Response - The choroid plexus contains multiple myeloid and lymphoid immune cell subpopulations, with some lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cell subpopulations expressing proliferation signals, suggesting a "lymph node-like" proliferation of immune cells in situ [2] - Downregulation of macrophage migration inhibitory factor expression in the choroid plexus epithelial cells of Alzheimer's disease mice leads to disrupted immune cell communication and macrophage activation [2] Group 3: Gender Differences - The study identified significant gender differences in the gene expression profile of the choroid plexus, providing data support for future research on the pathological mechanisms and interventions related to gender differences in Alzheimer's disease [2]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses a shocking discovery that microplastics and nanoplastics have been found in human brain tissue, raising concerns about their potential impact on health, particularly in relation to neurodegenerative diseases [5][7][9]. Group 1: Research Findings - A study published in Nature Medicine revealed that all tested human brain samples contained microplastics and nanoplastics, with the highest concentration reaching 7 grams, equivalent to the weight of a plastic spoon [5][6]. - The concentration of microplastics in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia was found to be 3 to 5 times higher than in healthy individuals, suggesting a possible link between plastic exposure and cognitive decline [7]. - Between 2016 and 2024, the concentration of microplastics in brain tissue increased by 50%, paralleling the trend of plastic production doubling every 10 to 15 years [9]. Group 2: Sources of Microplastics - Microplastics enter the human body primarily through food and drink, as they have infiltrated the marine food chain, affecting seafood and salt consumption [10][11]. - Airborne microplastics, including synthetic fibers and particles from tire wear, also contribute to human exposure, with urban residents potentially inhaling up to 74,000 microplastic particles annually [13]. Group 3: Implications and Recommendations - The pervasive presence of microplastics in daily life necessitates a reduction in unnecessary plastic exposure, such as minimizing the use of single-use takeaway containers and opting for glass or stainless steel products [14]. - The article emphasizes that the concern has shifted from plastic pollution in oceans to its infiltration into human bodies, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and action [15].

Core Viewpoint - A recent study published in Nature Medicine reveals the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics in human brain tissue, raising concerns about their potential impact on neurological health [2][4]. Group 1: Research Findings - All tested human brain samples contained microplastics, with the highest concentration reaching 7 grams, equivalent to the weight of a plastic spoon [3]. - Individuals with Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia exhibited 3 to 5 times higher concentrations of microplastics in their brains compared to healthy individuals [4][6]. - Over the past eight years, the concentration of microplastics in the brain has increased by 50%, paralleling the trend of plastic production doubling every 10 to 15 years [7]. Group 2: Sources of Microplastics - Microplastics enter the human body primarily through food and drink, with seafood, salt, and bottled water being significant sources [9][12]. - Airborne microplastics, including synthetic fibers and particles from tire wear, contribute to inhalation exposure, with urban residents potentially inhaling up to 74,000 microplastic particles annually [13][14]. Group 3: Implications and Recommendations - The pervasive presence of microplastics necessitates a reduction in unnecessary plastic exposure, such as minimizing takeout food and opting for glass or stainless steel containers [17]. - The shift in focus from ocean plastic pollution to human health underscores the urgent need for awareness and action regarding plastic consumption [18].

Core Viewpoint - A recent study published in Nature Medicine reveals the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics in human brain tissue, raising concerns about their potential impact on neurological health [2][4]. Group 1: Research Findings - All tested human brain samples contained microplastics, with the highest concentration reaching 7 grams, equivalent to the weight of a plastic spoon [3]. - Individuals with Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia exhibited 3 to 5 times higher concentrations of microplastics in their brains compared to healthy individuals [4][6]. - Over the past eight years, the concentration of microplastics in the brain has increased by 50%, paralleling the trend of plastic production doubling every 10 to 15 years [7]. Group 2: Sources of Microplastics - Microplastics enter the human body primarily through food and drink, with seafood, salt, and bottled water being significant sources [9][12]. - Airborne microplastics, including synthetic fibers and tire wear particles, also contribute to human exposure, with urban residents potentially inhaling up to 74,000 microplastic particles annually [13][14]. Group 3: Implications and Recommendations - The pervasive presence of microplastics suggests that complete avoidance is impossible, but reducing unnecessary plastic exposure is advisable, such as minimizing takeout and opting for glass or stainless steel containers [17]. - The shift in concern from ocean plastic pollution to human health implications underscores the urgency of addressing plastic contamination [18].

人物小传 田金洲，1956年生，湖北天门人，中国工程院院士，北京中医药大学东直门医院脑病科主任医师、教 授。致力于用中医药防治阿尔茨海默病及其他神经系统疾病研究，将最新的阿尔茨海默病诊疗技术与我 国古代的临床经验、当今的应用场景紧密结合，创建阿尔茨海默病序贯疗法，辨证施治，更好地发挥中 医药作用。 每周四早晨7点半，田金洲会准时出现在北京中医药大学东直门医院脑病科诊室，近69岁的他乌发间仍 透着精气神。来就诊的是一群特殊的患者——他们沉默地坐着，记忆的碎片正悄然流逝，全靠家属帮他 们描述病情。 "最近他起夜次数比以前少了""现在不乱跑了，但最近肠胃不太好"……家属们轻声细语地介绍着病情， 田金洲的笔尖在病历本上沙沙作响，记录着患者的情况。 阿尔茨海默病是一种进行性神经系统退行性疾病，迄今为止病因尚不明确，没有世界公认的特效药。田 金洲说："现代医学现有的治疗措施均不能逆转病情发展，中医药为疾病的诊治提供了新的方式。" 1 一套"组合拳" 设计序贯疗法，结合病情发展进行分阶段治疗 遗忘、混乱、妄想……疾病的骤然来临会全然改变一个人、一个家庭的命运。无论患者的一生是跌宕起 伏还是平平淡淡，人生下一幕都会起始于这个 ...