
Can cancer drugs treat Alzheimer's? New study thinks so
As per Alzheimer's Association, in 2025, global Alzheimer's statistics indicate a significant prevalence of the disease, with projections estimating that over 7 million Americans will be living with Alzheimer's dementia. Globally, it is estimated that someone develops dementia every three seconds, and the number of people living with dementia is expected to reach 78 million by 2030.
The progressive neurodegenerative disorder, long considered a therapeutic dead end, may soon find some hope of cure in an unlikely ally: cancer drugs.
Recent research reveals that several oncology medications, originally designed to fight tumors, have shown promise in targeting key pathways of Alzheimer's disease (AD), from protein aggregation to neuroinflammation and metabolic dysfunction.
Let's delve deeper into the newest discovery of the silver lining.
The medical breakthrough:
Scientists are exploring cancer drugs as a potential way to tackle Alzheimer's disease, given that the options for treatment are quite limited.
As cases of Alzheimer's continue to rise in the U.S. and around the world due to an aging population, there still isn't a cure. Efforts to create new treatments that actually slow the disease's progression have mostly fallen short.
Currently, only two drugs, Leqembi and Kisunla, are approved by the FDA to slow down early Alzheimer's, but their effectiveness is very limited. Many pharmaceutical companies have even stopped developing Alzheimer's drugs after unsuccessful trials, while others are experimenting with existing medications, including popular weight loss drugs.
Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, have taken a different approach. They searched through a database of over 1,300 various drugs, like antipsychotics and chemotherapy drugs, to find ones that could be repurposed for Alzheimer's treatment. Their study, published in the journal
Cell
, highlighted two cancer drugs that showed promise in reducing Alzheimer's risk. When tested together on mice, these drugs appeared to slow or even reverse Alzheimer's symptoms.
One drug is typically used for breast cancer, and the other works against colon and lung cancer. Alzheimer's is known to cause significant changes in gene expression in the brain, which can disrupt brain function and lead to memory loss.
From their database, fewer than 90 drugs successfully reversed markers related to Alzheimer's in human brain cells. Of these, five drugs seemed particularly effective in lowering Alzheimer's risk for actual patients, and the researchers focused on two FDA-approved cancer drugs to test in mice.
According to the findings, letrozole, a breast cancer drug, appeared to influence gene expression in nerve cells, while irinotecan, used for colon and lung cancer, affected glial cells, which support the nervous system. Alzheimer's can damage nerve cells and trigger an overgrowth of glial cells, leading to brain inflammation.
Interestingly, past studies have shown that breast cancer patients on letrozole had a lower chance of developing Alzheimer's, and colorectal cancer survivors treated with irinotecan also showed decreased risk, adding to the excitement around these findings.
The groundbreaking findings:
Researchers have been testing a combination of two cancer drugs in mice and found some promising results: the combo reversed brain degeneration and improved memory in mice showing signs of Alzheimer's. However, because what works in mice doesn't always work in humans, they plan to test these drugs in a clinical trial with Alzheimer's patients.
Dr. Yadong Huang, a co-author of the study and a neurology professor at UCSF, noted the advantages of repurposing existing drugs: 'Developing a new drug can take hundreds of millions, or even billions, of dollars, and on average takes more than 10 years.
For this repurposed drug, usually, it just takes two or three years, and then you can go to the clinical trial, and the cost is much, much lower.' Despite this progress, he acknowledged, as reported by NBC News, 'We still haven't generated or produced any very effective drugs that can really slow down dramatically the cognitive decline.
'
Alzheimer's remains a complex disease, and its exact cause is still a mystery. Currently, it isn't clear why these cancer drugs might help with Alzheimer's.
One idea is that the breast cancer drug reduces estrogen production, which controls many genes. Another theory is that the colon and lung cancer drug might reduce inflammation in the brain by stopping glial cells from multiplying.
Dr. Melanie McReynolds, a biochemistry assistant professor at Pennsylvania State University, who wasn't involved in this study, added another angle. Her research suggests that another cancer drug can help Alzheimer's by regulating glucose metabolism, which is how cells generate energy.
'With aging, with stress, with diseases, that line of communication is disrupted,' she explained. She believes the drug combo could reverse metabolic decline, calling it 'the secret for contributing to better outcomes with Alzheimer's.
'
What's ahead:
Cancer drug repurposing opens a transformative chapter in Alzheimer's treatment, where repurposing anticancer agents allows researchers to exploit existing toxicity and pharmacokinetic data, potentially accelerating human testing and reducing development costs.
While these findings are exciting, the potential side effects need to be carefully considered. Letrozole can cause hot flashes, and irinotecan may lead to severe diarrhea. 'These drugs have huge side effects, so you need to always balance and figure out whether those types of side effects would be amenable to somebody with Alzheimer's,' Sirota cautioned. 'It's not that it's a slam dunk.'
Reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease linked to target protein for diabetes, as per a study
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Time of India
44 minutes ago
- Time of India
Poor Europeans live longer than rich Americans, study reveals stark contrast
It's a common perception that a wealthy person, with comfort, stability, and access to top-tier healthcare, is more likely to live a longer and healthier life. But a new study challenges this belief and reestablishes an old saying: money isn't everything, at least not when it comes to health and longevity. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the study tracked nearly 74,000 individuals aged 50 to 85 across the US and 16 European countries from 2010 to 2022. Surprisingly, some of the poorest Europeans were found to outlive even the wealthiest Americans, revealing deep disparities tied to national healthcare systems and social structures. Europe vs. US: Wealth doesn't guarantee longevity Researchers divided Europe into three regions—northern and western, southern, and eastern—comparing survival rates to those in the United States. The US had the highest overall death rate at 6.5 per 1,000 people, while northern and western Europe had a much lower rate of 2.9. Even more telling, wealthy Americans had lower survival rates than everyone in northern and western Europe and were only on par with the poorest in those regions. This pattern persisted across multiple metrics. The poorest Americans died younger than their European counterparts, and the survival gap between America's rich and poor was the widest of any nation studied. According to researchers, factors like income inequality, limited access to healthcare, and weaker social support structures in the US help explain this disturbing trend. The role of welfare systems and social support Experts say Europe's stronger welfare policies likely play a major role in these outcomes. Countries like the Netherlands, France, and Germany provide broader access to healthcare, affordable housing, and public support for aging populations. Dr. Martin McKee, a professor of European public health, noted that robust social safety nets benefit not just the poor, but the middle class as well. Europe's universal healthcare systems, along with preventive care programs, income support, elder care, and housing assistance, create a protective framework that sustains public health across all socioeconomic groups. These policies don't only improve outcomes for those at the bottom—they raise the baseline for everyone. In contrast, the US approach—heavily reliant on employer-based insurance, private healthcare, and minimal government intervention—excludes millions and creates gaps even among those with stable incomes. The study controlled for major risk factors such as gender, education, smoking habits, and chronic illnesses, which strengthens its conclusion that national policy—not just personal behavior—plays a pivotal role in longevity. However, it did not account for the influence of racial disparities or the ultra-wealthy 1%, which researchers say could further widen the inequality picture. Still, the core message remains stark: a society's collective investment in healthcare and social support directly impacts how long and well its people live.


Economic Times
an hour ago
- Economic Times
Saiyaara portrays Alzheimer's in Aneet Padda's 22-year-old character: What the disease is, its risk factors, and key symptoms
The Bollywood film 'Saiyaara' is being lauded for its emotional depth, but its depiction of a 22-year-old with early-onset Alzheimer's has drawn criticism from medical experts. Neurologists highlight that such early manifestation is highly improbable, typically occurring after age 40. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Understanding Alzheimer's disease What causes Alzheimer's? Key risk factors explained Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Age remains the primary risk factor — the National Institute on Aging notes that 'the risk of Alzheimer's doubles every five years after age 65.' This is linked to the accumulation of abnormal brain proteins like beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Genetics also plays a significant role. Individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's, especially those carrying the APOE ε4 gene variant, are more vulnerable. However, carrying the gene doesn't guarantee a diagnosis. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) — particularly repeated or severe ones — can raise long-term risk by altering brain function. Cardiovascular issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can reduce brain blood flow and contribute to cognitive decline. Mental health and lifestyle also matter. Chronic stress, depression, smoking, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle are all risk factors. Social isolation and low levels of education further elevate the risk. Recognising Alzheimer's: Symptoms to watch for Memory loss that disrupts daily routines, such as forgetting recent conversations or appointments. Difficulty completing familiar tasks, like using appliances or managing bills. Problem-solving challenges, including trouble planning or following steps. Language issues, such as struggling to find the right words or follow conversations. Disorientation, with confusion about time or location. Poor judgment, including neglecting hygiene or falling for scams. Mood and personality changes, such as irritability, anxiety, or social withdrawal. Managing early-onset Alzheimer's: What's the approach? While Saiyaara, the latest romantic drama from Bollywood, is winning hearts for its emotional storytelling, the film's portrayal of Alzheimer's disease in a young woman has raised eyebrows among medical professionals. The plot revolves around a 22-year-old journalist diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's — a scenario that, according to neurologists, is highly argue that while the film tugs at the heartstrings, its medical accuracy falls short. Neurologists emphasize that early-onset Alzheimer's 'generally doesn't happen before 40,' and that 'definitive symptoms hardly manifest in a patient in their 20s and 30s.'Alzheimer's is a progressive neurological disorder and the most common type of dementia. It gradually destroys memory, thinking ability, and daily functioning skills. The condition not only affects individuals but also significantly burdens their families and caregivers with emotional, financial, and logistical the early stages, Alzheimer's may be mistaken for simple forgetfulness, but as it progresses, it can impair even basic abilities like recognising loved ones or managing personal no single cause of Alzheimer's disease. Instead, it develops through a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle influences that slowly damage the these factors doesn't mean a person will develop Alzheimer's, but it does increase the likelihood. Fortunately, many lifestyle-related risks are modifiable with early occasional memory lapses are normal with age, Alzheimer's causes a progressive cognitive and behavioral decline that interferes with everyday life. As per the Alzheimer's Association and the National Institute on Aging, early warning signs include:These signs can also stem from other conditions like depression or medication side effects. A professional medical diagnosis is more advanced stages, individuals may lose their ability to communicate, move independently, or care for themselves. Research supports that early detection and timely intervention can improve quality of life and delay the disease's progression. Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial when symptoms currently no cure for Alzheimer's. However, when diagnosed early, neurologists can recommend medications that help slow progression. Lifestyle changes — such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, cognitive exercises, and managing cardiovascular risks — form a critical part of supportive the average life expectancy after an early-onset diagnosis is eight to ten years, outcomes can vary based on individual health and how quickly the disease advances.


Indian Express
an hour ago
- Indian Express
‘I am a gut doctor and here are 7 things I wish more people knew about fibre'
Did you know that most people aren't getting enough fibre in their daily diet? While it's often overlooked, fibre plays a crucial role in keeping your digestion smooth, supporting weight management, and even improving heart health. Despite its importance, a surprising number of people remain unaware of how fibre affects nearly every aspect of their well-being. Dr Saurabh Sethi, a content creator and gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford universities, shared in an Instagram post, seven facts about fibre that everyone should know. Dr Adithya V Naragund, senior consultant in GI and HPB Surgery at Cytecare Hospitals, Bengaluru, helps us decode each of the points in detail: Dr Sethi mentions, 'About 95 percent of Americans don't get enough fibre.' 'Yes, that's quite accurate,' notes Dr Naragund, adding that while this statistic is from the US, 'the trend holds true in India too, especially in urban populations where diets are increasingly processed and refined.' He stresses that a fibre-poor diet can result in sluggish digestion, frequent sugar cravings, and a lack of satiety. These symptoms often get overlooked or misattributed, but they're strong signals from the gut that it's missing this essential nutrient. 'You're eating for trillions of microbes' in your gut, states Dr Sethi. Dr Nagarund says, 'This is a wonderful way to put it. Our gut microbiome thrives on prebiotic fibres that help it function optimally.' When well-fed, he explains that these microbes support not just digestion but also regulate mood, support immune defence, and even influence how we handle stress. The gut truly is a second brain, and fibre is one of its most important fuels. According to Dr Sethi, soluble fibre feeds gut microbes and helps lower cholesterol. Insoluble fibre adds bulk to stool and supports regular bowel movements. 'Yes, both soluble and insoluble fibre play unique roles,' states Dr Nagarund. 'Soluble fibre, found in oats, apples, and beans, helps manage blood sugar and cholesterol. Insoluble fibre, which you get from whole grains and the peels of fruits and vegetables, helps bulk up stool and support regularity. Together, they work in harmony to keep the gut resilient and balanced.' 'High-fibre foods fill you up, slow sugar spikes, and reduce cravings,' notes Dr Sethi, to which, Dr Nagarund adds that research increasingly supports this. Fibre-rich foods are not only more filling but also slow down digestion, which helps curb overeating. 'A steady intake of around 25 to 30 grams per day can lead to better metabolic health, improved insulin sensitivity, and gradual fat loss over time — especially around the abdominal area,' says the doctor. A post shared by Saurabh Sethi (@ Adding fibre too quickly can cause gas, bloating, and discomfort, stresses Dr Sethi. According to Dr Nagarund, this is a key point. 'A sudden jump in fibre intake can backfire, causing bloating or discomfort. A gradual increase, paired with more water and a little movement, helps the body adjust. Everyone's tolerance is different, so it's important to go slow and be mindful,' he says. Dr Sethi writes, 'Lentils, oats, chia, flax, berries, and even popcorn are fibre-rich; you don't have to live on salad.' Concurring, Dr Nagarund details the benefits: 'Pulses, millets, fruits with skin, seeds like flax and chia, and even snacks like air-popped popcorn can be great sources. Traditional Indian foods like sabut dal and the use of whole grains like bajra and jowar already offer rich fibre — when not overly refined.' Dr Sethi explains that it supports brain function, lowers heart disease risk, builds a resilient microbiome. 'Fibre truly is a cornerstone of preventive health. From balancing hormones to reducing heart risk and supporting cognitive clarity, its benefits go well beyond digestion. It helps create a healthy gut ecosystem, which in turn supports many vital functions across the body,' concludes Dr Nagarund. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.