Scientists are pioneering a study that could pave the way for a potential ‘cure’ to Alzheimer’s, dementia and Parkinson’s. The groundbreaking research will investigate whether treatments can be directly delivered to the brain using special microbubbles.
In combination with ultrasound, these microbubbles might have the potential to breach the blood brain barrier, which typically blocks most substances from entering the brain, including medicines that could treat various areas. Dr Gareth Cave, who leads Nottingham Trent University’s nanoscience and drug delivery group within the School of Science and Technology, said: “These are illnesses that do not discriminate and once they have taken hold, they rob people of the ones they love the most and valuable years together.”
He stressed the uniqueness of their approach, saying: “By harnessing knowledge spanning a range of fields, we are pursuing a totally different and truly innovative approach. We believe the cure for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and dementia could lie in the use of non-invasive techniques and natural materials.”
The blood barrier ordinarily acts as a safeguard against potentially damaging substances and toxins reaching the brain tissue but it also prevents treatments from reaching their target areas inside the brain. However, there is hope among the scientific community that this barrier could be momentarily unlocked, permitting interventions like stem cell therapies to mend and potentially reverse neural damage.
In a groundbreaking approach, ultrasound is being paired with MRI technology to allow real-time monitoring of the physiological effects within the brain. Meanwhile, the research team is looking into utilising light particles to energise cells in the brain and the blood-brain barrier, aiding their natural and swift healing process, reports Wales Online.
Dr Gareth Cave said: “These deeply powerful yet far safer tools for combating the symptoms of these diseases could pave the way for routine treatments that transform and save the lives of sufferers.” Current statistics reveal that more than 944,000 UK residents are living with dementiaa number expected to surge as the population ages. Predictions suggest that by 2030, individuals with dementia in the UK could exceed one million.
The innovative research has received a significant funding injection from the Eranda Rothschild Foundation, amounting to over £1 million.