This cocktail could reverse memory loss

BOFFINS have created a drinkable cocktail of “designer molecules” that could cure Alzheimer’s and reverse memory loss.

Dementia charities described the breakthrough as “fascinating” after it was proven to work in mice.

Their brains and memory improved after taking the potion just twice a day for a month.

Based on an existing antibiotic, the drink works by blocking a crucial step in the disease process.

Researchers from Yale University in the US are now working to see if it is safe for humans.

They think just one cocktail a day could be enough to deliver benefits.

Dr Stephen Strittmatter, who worked on the study, said: “We do not have any human dosing data for this compound but once a day is a likely clinical scenario.”

Dr David Reynolds, from Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “The researchers showed that this experimental drug is able to improve memory symptoms and restore vital nerve cell connections in mice bred to have features of Alzheimer’s.

“These promising early results will need to be reproduced in further experiments that also establish the drug’s safety profile before it can enter clinical trials to see whether it is effective in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

“With no new drug treatment for dementia in over 15 years, promising early findings like this serve as a positive reminder that research is making progress towards breakthroughs that will change lives.”