Bexarotene for Alzheimer's

A long prescribed skin cancer medication, Bexarotene, may offer a relief from Alzheimer's Disease by attacking harmful amyloid beta proteins. Though the medication may not be able to revive dead cells, early detection and treatment may prove beneficial for slowing or halting the onset of symptoms. Researchers intend to verify their findings and escalate their testing beyond laboratory mice to explore the potential for this medicine's use.

Showing unprecedented potential for helping the brain clear harmful protein buildup, researchers found that bexarotene rapidly clears 75% of amyloid beta in mice. This protein is known to strangle the synapses preventing the communication between cells and resulting in their demise. If further trials prove to be as effective, bexarotene may be implemented as an early stage treatment.