You may be familiar with glutathione therapy for skin treatments, but did you know about its potential role in treating Alzheimer's? This neurodegenerative disorder is characterised by increasing cognitive decline, such as memory, thinking, and behaviour. It is intricately linked to oxidative stress, and this is where glutathione, a potent antioxidant, comes into play. We spoke to our experts who highlighted the impact of oxidative stress on Alzheimer’s disease and how glutathione may help in its treatment.
Alzheimer's and Oxidative Stress
According to Biomedical Reports, Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is characterised by oxidative stress, a condition where brain cells, requiring oxygen for metabolism, produce free radicals that can damage brain cells. "The initial stage, Minimal Cognitive Impairment (MCI), is crucial for preventive measures against oxidative stress to delay disease progression”, informed Dr Rohit Pai, Consultant Neurologist, KMC Hospital, Mangalore.
According to a study published in HHS Public Access, it was found that one of the main factors leading to the transition of MCI to AD is a gradual decline in antioxidants, specifically reduced glutathione.
Also Read: Expert Speaks On The Growing Burden Of Alzheimer's Disease In India
Glutathione: The Potent Antioxidant
According to a journal published in HHS Public Access, glutathione, a powerful antioxidant produced in the cytoplasm of every cell, sees a decline in concentration with age and age-associated disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinsonism. “Notably, glutathione depletion is observed in specific brain regions, such as the hippocampus and cingulate cortex”, highlighted Dr Pai.
Glutathione Therapy for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's
Dr Pai added, “While intranasal glutathione has been explored for Parkinson's disease with inconclusive results, an oral administration of glutathione is being tested in a phase 3 trial funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and approved by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI). Investigators are optimistic that proven efficacy could prevent the progression from MCI to Alzheimer's.”
Glutathione Beyond Alzheimer's: Dermatology and Liver Disease
“Glutathione is a potent antioxidant and detoxifying agent produced in all the body cells. Several clinical trials have stated the use of glutathione in dermatology to lighten the skin complexion and improve fine lines and wrinkles, and in the treatment of liver disease to promote repair and regeneration of liver cells in a diseased liver the highlight the possible antioxidant property of glutathione”, said Dr Veena Vedartham, Consultant, Neurologist and Neuromuscular Specialist, Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, Bengaluru.
Dr Vedartham highlighted, “Animal studies on transgenic (genetically modified) mice with Ab or amyloid plaques in the brain, which is the hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, showed decreased glutathione levels than normal mice.”
She added, “According to another animal study from Sydney, g-glutamylcysteine, a glutathione precursor, lowers neuroinflammation in mice and improves cognition significantly, as determined by the Morris water maze, a test commonly used to measure mice memory.
“There are similar ongoing studies on patients with Alzheimer’s disease, where supplements of glycine and cysteine, which combine in the body to make glutathione, are being administered. The participants will undergo cognitive assessments, MRI, and PET imaging to measure changes in cognition and neuroinflammation”, added Dr Vedartham.
Bottomline
As research unfolds, the potential of glutathione in treating Alzheimer's becomes more evident. Glutathione offers a variety of benefits including antioxidant properties and potential applications in addressing skin concerns and neurodegenerative disorders. Ongoing trials continue to shed light on the extent of glutathione's impact on cognitive health and disease progression.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by registered healthcare professionals and is for informational purposes only. We advise you to consult your expert if you have any queries or face any complications.]