Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is strongly linked to the buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain, a process that disrupts memory, thinking, and daily functioning. Vascular dysfunction and reduced cerebral blood flow (CBF) worsen this pathology by limiting oxygen delivery and creating hypoxic conditions. Researchers are now finding that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may directly reduce amyloid burden while also improving brain health.
How HBOT Impacts the Brain
In a recent study using 5XFAD mice, a widely studied Alzheimer’s model, scientists investigated the effects of HBOT through live imaging, behavioral testing, and biochemical analysis. The results showed that HBOT:
- Improved blood flow: By increasing arteriolar diameter and elevating CBF, HBOT reduced brain hypoxia.
- Reduced amyloid plaques: HBOT not only decreased the volume of existing amyloid plaques but also slowed the formation of new ones.
- Enhanced protein clearance: Treatment improved the processing of amyloid precursor protein and boosted the clearance of toxic Aß proteins.
- Supported cognitive performance: Mice that received HBOT showed measurable improvements in memory and behavior.
Extending Benefits to Humans
Encouraged by these results, researchers also applied HBOT to elderly patients experiencing significant memory loss. The therapy increased cerebral blood flow and improved cognitive performance, suggesting that HBOT’s positive effects are not limited to animal models but may also translate to clinical settings.
The Promise of HBOT for Alzheimer’s
The study highlights how hyperbaric oxygen reduces amyloid in Alzheimer’s disease through a combination of vascular improvements, reduced hypoxia, and enhanced plaque clearance. While more large-scale clinical trials are needed, these findings suggest that HBOT may emerge as an alternative therapy for Alzheimer’s care, offering hope to families seeking treatments that go beyond symptom management.
As research progresses, HBOT may become part of a comprehensive approach to supporting brain oxygen levels, reducing neuroinflammation, and slowing the progression of dementia-related decline.
Check out the PubMed article here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34499614/
