“This is a particularly exciting and rewarding study because of the new science we have discovered and the potential promise of a therapy for Alzheimer’s disease. Our next objective is to ascertain if it acts similarly in humans.”–Gary Landreth, Case Western Reserve University

Research into a cancer drug called Bexarotene is showing promise as a treatment for Alzheimer’s.   Bexarotene is a retinoid, a chemical related to vitamin A.

Researchers used the retinoid on lab mice with laboratory induced Alzheimer’s.  Alzheimer’s is believed to be caused by plaque build up on the brain.  Amazingly when the mice were given Bexarotene, there was an immediate clearing of plaque that lasted for three days.  The result was up to a 75% reduction in plaque.

They hope to test the drug on humans soon.