What if a gas used in anesthesia became a weapon against Alzheimer's disease? A recent study reveals that xenon, a noble gas, could protect the brain by reducing inflammation and brain damage.
This discovery opens new perspectives for millions of patients suffering from this neurodegenerative disease. Researchers are now exploring its therapeutic potential, with clinical trials planned as early as 2025.
Illustration image Pixabay Alzheimer's disease: a persistent medical challenge
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, characterized by a progressive loss of memory and cognitive functions. Current treatments, such as cholinesterase inhibitors, alleviate symptoms without slowing the progression of the disease.
Amyloid plaques, accumulations of toxic proteins in the brain, play a central role in neuronal degeneration. Despite advances, no treatment effectively targets these plaques or the associated brain inflammation.
Xenon: a gas with multiple properties
Xenon, a gas used in anesthesia and medical imaging, has the ability to easily cross the blood-brain barrier. This characteristic makes it an ideal candidate to act directly on the brain.
Preclinical studies show that xenon activates microglia, brain immune cells. Once stimulated, these cells reduce inflammation and eliminate amyloid plaques, thereby slowing neuronal degeneration.
Promising results in mice
In a study published in
Science Translational Medicine, genetically modified mice to develop Alzheimer's inhaled xenon. Researchers observed a reduction in brain atrophy and inflammation, as well as an improvement in cognitive functions.
These results suggest that xenon could not only slow the progression of the disease but also protect existing neurons. These effects could be applicable to other neurodegenerative diseases.
Towards clinical trials in humans
A phase 1 clinical trial is planned for 2025, aiming to evaluate the safety and efficacy of xenon in healthy volunteers. If the results are conclusive, this gas could become a complementary treatment for Alzheimer's.
Researchers are also considering studying its potential in other pathologies, such as multiple sclerosis or Charcot's disease. Xenon, already known for its safety, could thus offer a new therapeutic approach.
Hope for patients and their families
With the increase in Alzheimer's cases in aging societies, the discovery of xenon's potential is a glimmer of hope. Although steps remain to be taken, this approach could transform the management of this devastating disease.
Researchers remain cautious but optimistic. If clinical trials confirm these results, xenon could mark a turning point in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
To go further: What is microglia and what is its role in the brain?
Microglia is a type of immune cell present in the brain and spinal cord. These cells play an essential role in protecting the central nervous system against infections, injuries, and cellular debris.
Under normal conditions, microglia constantly monitors the brain environment. When it detects a threat, such as inflammation or misfolded proteins, it activates to eliminate pathogens and repair damaged tissues.
In diseases like Alzheimer's, microglia becomes dysfunctional. Instead of protecting the brain, it contributes to chronic inflammation and the destruction of neurons. This dysregulation worsens the symptoms of the disease.
Recent research shows that stimulating microglia, for example with xenon, can restore its protective function. This opens the way to new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, where microglia plays a central role.
What is the blood-brain barrier and why is it important?
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a protective membrane that separates blood from the brain. It is composed of tightly linked endothelial cells, forming a selective barrier that regulates exchanges between the blood system and the central nervous system.
This barrier protects the brain from toxic substances and pathogens present in the blood. It allows essential nutrients, such as glucose and amino acids, to pass while blocking unwanted molecules.
However, the BBB poses a problem for the treatment of brain diseases. Most drugs cannot cross it, thus limiting their effectiveness. Only certain molecules, such as xenon, can naturally cross it.
Understanding and bypassing the BBB is a major challenge in medicine. Research is exploring methods to deliver treatments directly into the brain, opening new perspectives for treating diseases like Alzheimer's or multiple sclerosis.
Article author: Cédric DEPOND