Researchers from the Human Microbiology Institute in New York were able to significantly reverse late-stage effects of Alzheimer's disease in a septuagenarian male through treatment with the repurposed medication deoxyribonuclease I, according to a study published in the Journal of Medical Case Reports.
DNase I was previously approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat mucus buildup in patients with cystic fibrosis.
For the case study, researchers report on a 77-year-old man who had been diagnosed with late-onset Alzheimer's disease 30 months prior to coming into contact with the researchers. The man was being treated with memantine and had exhibited behavioral disturbances, significant cognitive decline, a decreased ability to engage in activities of daily living and a 20-pound weight loss.
After DNase I was added to the treatment regiment, improvements could be observed just two days later — the patient was able to recognize and remember family members and their names. As treatment continued, the subject became able to dress himself, walk independently, feed himself and use an exercise bike.
"Our results show potential for reversing the effects of a disease that dramatically impacts not only millions of patients around the world, but also their families," said George Tetz, MD, PhD, scientific officer at HMI. "Our experimental drug has given one patient a new lease on life, and now we are continuing with our tests with the hopes of reversing the devastating effects of Alzheimer's disease and other incurable diseases like dementia and Parkinson's."
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