An amino acid called taurine has been found to be effective against Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers from the Korean Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) found that taurine, which is in high concentrations in the brain, had a direct effect on beta amyloid, a protein that's fundamental to Alzheimer's.
They designed a study with Alzheimer's-induced mice, and fed them 30 mg of taurine in their drinking water every day. After three months, the mice regained their normal cognitive abilities, evidenced by their ability to run mazes. In addition, inflammation in their cerebral cortex diminished, and CT scans showed that taurine caused the amount of beta amyloid produced by the hippocampus to decrease, causing cells related to memory to function more normally.
Unlike medications now used to treat Alzheimer's, taurine doesn't cause abnormalities in brain function. It can also cross the blood/brain barrier, even when it's taken by mouth.
Among other functions, taurine promotes neurological development, cardiovascular health, and insulin sensitivity. It also functions as an antioxidant. It's found in high concentrations in shrimp, oysters, octopus, and squid, but is also available as a dietary supplement and is often used as an ingredient in energy drinks.
Researchers hope to use the chemical structure of taurine to develop safe and effective treatments for Alzheimer's.
The study was published in Scientific Reports.
The Japanese, who are known for their long lifespans, have a high dietary intake of taurine. Only three-and-a-half ounces of oysters can contain more than 1,100 milligrams.
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