Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually affects memory, thinking, language and the ability to carry out everyday tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia.
Book a consultationHow Alzheimer’s Disease develops
Two protein changes are strongly linked with the disease: amyloid-beta plaques that collect between nerve cells, and tau tangles that form inside them. Over time nerve cells lose their connections and die, and parts of the brain shrink. Age is the biggest risk factor, and genetics, cardiovascular health and lifestyle also play a part.
Common signs and symptoms
- Memory loss, especially for recent events
- Difficulty planning, following conversations or finding words
- Confusion about time or place
- Changes in mood, behaviour or personality
- Increasing need for help with daily activities
Standard medical care
- Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, which can help with symptoms
- Support for daily living, memory services and carer support
- Management of other conditions such as blood pressure and hearing
- Newer antibody medicines exist in some countries; ask a memory specialist whether they are suitable
Regenerative research
Researchers are investigating mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and the signalling molecules they release for their effects on inflammation and nerve-cell survival. Most published work is preclinical or consists of review articles, and large clinical trials are still needed to show safety and benefit. No cell therapy is an established treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.
Published research
Selected review articles and studies on regenerative approaches. Links open external sites, which are not controlled by Arkangel Clinic.
- Stem Cell Therapy for Alzheimer’s Disease: A Scoping Review for 2017–2022
- Mesenchymal stem cell therapy for Alzheimer’s disease
- Stem Cell Therapies for Alzheimer’s Disease: Is it Time?
- Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Therapies for Neurodegenerative Diseases
- Stem Cell Therapy in Alzheimer’s Disease: Possible Benefits and Limiting Drawbacks
- Therapeutic utility of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-based approaches in chronic neurodegeneration
Trusted patient information
Questions worth asking any clinic
- Is this treatment licensed, or part of a regulated clinical trial?
- What does the published evidence show, and what are the known risks?
- What would it cost, and what happens if it does not help?
- How will my own specialist or GP be kept informed?
