Prevent Alzheimer's with Olive Oil

The Greek island of Corfu may be the source of a new and potent weapon against Alzheimer’s disease. It’s not a manufactured drug; it’s the extra virgin olive oils produced there.

Auburn researchers led by Dr. Amal Kaddoumi of the Harrison School of Pharmacy believe these olive oils, unlike other varieties, contain elements that can improve the condition of the brain, helping to prevent the disease, slow its progress, perhaps even restore mental function. Studies in mice are promising, and now your donation can help fund trials in humans.

Your support on Tiger Giving Day will provide resources to allow more people to enroll in the initial pilot study. Through this study, we may be able to stop, or even reverse the course of this disease and benefit the lives of millions.

The potential benefit is enormous. Some 5.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. That number is projected to double by 2050. In Alabama, an estimated 86,000 people have the disease. Alzheimer’s also affects the 15 million people who provide care and costs a staggering $260 billion a year.

Despite decades of research, no effective treatment exists. Auburn researchers are investigating treatment of the part of the brain known as the blood-brain barrier. Within the brain, specialized cells line tiny blood vessels, allowing nutrients to enter and harmful wastes to clear while providing a barrier to toxins. Evidence suggests that the health of this blood-brain barrier is a key element in preventing Alzheimer’s and that restoring a defective barrier may be an effective therapy.

Your gift on Tiger Giving Day will be another step in Auburn’s fight against Alzheimer’s.