QUESTION:

antihypertensive medications may reduce the risk for Alzheimer disease

from The Journal of Clinical Investigation

http://content.the-jci.org/articles/view/31547

Title:

Valsartan Lowers brain β-amyloid protein levels and Improves spatial learning in a mouse model of Alzheimer Disease

Abstract:

Recent epidemiological evidence suggests that some antihypertensive, [blood pressure], medications may Reduce the risk for Alzheimer Disease (AD).

We screened 55 clinically prescribed antihypertensive medications for AD-modifying activity using primary cortico-hippocampal neuron cultures generated from the Tg2576 AD mouse model.

These agents represent all drug classes used for Hypertension pharmacotherapy.

We identified 7 candidate antihypertensive agents that significantly reduced AD-type β-amyloid protein (Aβ)accumulation.

Through In Vitro studies, we found that ONLY 1 of the candidate drugs, Valsartan, (trade name Diovan®), was capable of attenuating oligomerization of Aβ peptides into high-molecular-weight (HMW) oligomeric peptides, known to be involved in Cognitive Deterioration.

We found that Preventive Treatment of Tg2576 mice with Valsartan significantly Reduced AD-type neuropathology and the content of soluble HMW extracellular oligomeric Aβ peptides in the brain.

Most importantly, Valsartan administration also Attenuated the Development of Aβ-mediated Cognitive Deterioration, even when delivered at a dose about 2-Fold Lower than that used for Hypertension treatment in Humans.

These Preclinical Studies suggest that certain Antihypertensive Drugs may have AD-modifying activity and may PROTECT against progressive Aβ-related Memory Deficits in subjects with AD or in those at high risk of developing AD.

(my note -- maybe those of us who are taking blood pressure medication should ask our Cardiologist what his/her take is on this JCI article? Should we, perhaps, switch to Diovan® as a precaution against Alzheimer Disease?

I'm going to ask me Cardiologist that question because, right now, I have a memory like a sieve!!)
asked by grandpa24551, 10/28/2007
Categories: Health and Health Care
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