Cell Reports Medicine: P7C3-A20 drug completely reverses Alzheimer’s in mice

US researchers have proven that the drug P7C3-A20 can restore brain function even in the advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease—at least in experiments on animals. The findings of their respective study were published in the journal Cell Reports Medicine.

The focus was on the NAD+ molecule, a substance without which cells cannot properly obtain and use energy. NAD+ is involved in almost all cellular "fuel" processes, which is why it is sometimes called an indicator of the body's energy state.

Researchers found that in Alzheimer's disease, the level of NAD+ in the brain decreases much more than in normal aging. This leads to a deterioration of neuronal function, increased inflammation, damage to blood vessels, and the accumulation of pathological proteins—amyloid and tau proteins, which are considered the main characteristics of Alzheimer's disease.

To check whether these changes can be reversed, researchers used the experimental drug P7C3-A20. It does not “speed up” energy exchange, but helps cells maintain their NAD+ levels within normal physiological limits.

After this treatment, the mice showed a decrease in the amount of pathological tau protein, restored neural connections, and eliminated cognitive impairment. The animals successfully passed memory and learning tests again.

Researchers emphasized, however, that this is still only a preclinical experiment, and there is no evidence yet that this approach will be effective in humans.

But the results change our understanding of Alzheimer's disease, as it can not only be slowed down, but also potentially reversed if the brain's energy balance can be restored.

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