Breakthrough with Plant Compound? Hope in Alzheimer's Therapy

A newly developed drug from rosemary could be a turning point in Alzheimer's treatment.

A team from the Scripps Research Institution in California has developed a modified form of the plant compound carnosic acid, which showed strong effects against Alzheimer's in animal experiments. The pro-drug, referred to as diAcCA, is orally ingestible and is only converted into its active form in the body. This allows it to reach effective concentrations in the brain and specifically unfold its effects in inflamed brain areas – a decisive advantage over previous therapeutic approaches.

Promising Effects in Alzheimer's Mice

In studies with genetically modified mice that exhibit typical Alzheimer's symptoms such as amyloid-β deposits and tau protein changes, the administration of diAcCA led to significant improvement. Memory performance approached normal levels again, brain inflammation decreased, and the number of functional synapses increased. The drug showed about 20 percent higher bioavailability than pure carnosic acid.

Stabilization Through New Drug Form

Although carnosic acid is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it is chemically unstable. The research team led by Dr. Stuart Lipton was able to solve this problem by developing a more stable pro-drug that is activated only after absorption in the intestine. Since the drug becomes active exclusively in inflamed tissue, unwanted side effects are reportedly minimal.

Outlook on Clinical Studies

Carnosic acid is classified as safe ("generally recognized as safe") by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This fact could facilitate future studies with humans. Initial human studies are in preparation. The research team is also examining its use in other diseases with an inflammatory component – such as Parkinson's, type 2 diabetes, or cardiovascular diseases.

Questions and Answers About diAcCA and Alzheimer's

What exactly is diAcCA?

diAcCA is a pro-drug, meaning a precursor of an active substance that is converted into its active form within the body. It is based on carnosic acid, a plant antioxidant from rosemary and sage, which has been stabilized and made more bioavailable.

How does diAcCA work in the brain?

diAcCA exerts its effects specifically in inflamed brain areas. It reduces typical Alzheimer's markers such as amyloid-β and tau proteins, inhibits inflammation, and promotes the recovery of synapses – the connections between nerve cells.

Has the active substance been tested on humans?

No, diAcCA has only been tested in animal studies so far. However, initial results are promising, and due to its favorable safety profile, a clinical trial in humans is being prepared.

Is carnosic acid from rosemary effective in foods?

In its natural form, carnosic acid is indeed present in herbs like rosemary, but in too low and unstable a form to achieve therapeutic effects. The medically relevant substance must be specifically processed.

Could diAcCA also help with other diseases?

Yes, since many chronic diseases are associated with inflammation, researchers are also examining the use of diAcCA in Parkinson's, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. However, results on this are still pending.

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