A new study has suggested that a common amino acid supplement could help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The research, published in Neurochemistry International, found that arginine, a naturally occurring amino acid, can prevent the accumulation of harmful amyloid plaques in the brain.
Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, is associated with memory loss, language difficulties, and behavioural changes. It is believed to be caused by an abnormal build-up of proteins, including amyloid, which forms plaques around brain cells. The study indicates that oral arginine supplementation could reduce amyloid levels.
In experiments on mice, oral arginine administration reduced amyloid plaque formation and decreased levels of insoluble Aβ42, a toxic protein fragment. The treated mice also performed better in behavioural tests and showed lower expression of genes linked to neuroinflammation, a key factor in Alzheimer's progression.
Professor Yoshitaka Nagai, a lead researcher, described the findings as exciting, noting that arginine is clinically safe and inexpensive. He suggested it could be a promising candidate for repurposing as a therapy for Alzheimer's disease. However, the team emphasised that further studies are needed to confirm the results in humans and to determine appropriate dosing.
Arginine is found in high-protein foods such as meat, fish, nuts, seeds, and dairy products, and is also available as a supplement. The NHS advises that early symptoms of Alzheimer's include memory lapses, and anyone concerned should consult a GP.
