Scientists at the Institute of Genetics of the Russian Academy of Sciences have found a drug that will slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease symptoms.
The researchers said the long work of studying the genetic characteristics of rats, which began in 1990, allowed them to detect mitochondrial dysfunction "as a major source of cell energy", which grows with age.
This factor, according to scientists, is a possible cause of early aging and a major factor in the risk of developing Alzheimer's and other neurological diseases, according to Russia today.
Over the years, scientists have studied melatonin, the "sleep hormone," and are convinced that it actually slows down the development of disease evidence, including by restoring mitochondrial functions.
The SkQ1 antagonist
In 2016, the institute's scientists demonstrated that this antidepressant is ingested with food to the brain; it accumulates in the mitochondria and improves its function; improved cognitive abilities and memory in Alzheimer's rats were observed when administered.
The drug appears to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease in its later stages, which scientists say is evidence that SkQ1 may be used as an excellent means of preventing the disease.
Scientists believe that the patient first encounters an imbalance in the brain's mitochondria. The energy balance is disrupted, resulting in a neurological disease, depending on the general state of the body, genetic characteristics, environmental conditions and other factors.