Scientists have found a new way to treat Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers from the Universities of Leeds and Lancaster in the UK have found that inhibiting the activity of the enzyme PDE4B may have a protective effect against Alzheimer’s disease by reducing inflammation in the brain. The results of this study were published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology (NPP).

Previously, the scientific community had identified the gene that controls the PDE4B enzyme as a potential risk factor for the development of Alzheimer’s disease. This PDE4B enzyme degrades a molecule known as cyclic AMP, which is an important intracellular signaling messenger for a number of hormones.

In a new study conducted on laboratory mice with Alzheimer’s disease, scientists found that rodents with genetically reduced PDE4B activity did not experience memory impairment. Using functional brain imaging, researchers found that this is associated with healthy glucose metabolism in the brain. Glucose is the main source of energy for normal brain function.

In addition, the study found that reduced activity of the PDE4B enzyme helps reduce inflammation in the brain, which in turn prevents the development of cognitive disorders. Scientists have calculated that even a small decrease in the activity of this enzyme by 27% significantly improves memory and attention in mice with Alzheimer’s disease.

The researchers note that drugs that block PDE4B could potentially be effective in preventing and treating the disease.