An Old Drug Has Potential to Slow Aging Process

A new study has demonstrated that a 100-year-old drug, methylene blue, may be able to slow or even cure Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Used at a very low concentration--approximately the equivalent of a few raindrops in four Olympic-sized swimming pools of water--the drug slows cellular aging and enhances mitochondrial function, potentially allowing those with the diseases to live longer, healthier lives.

An article on the methylene blue study, conducted by Hani Atamna, Ph.D., and his colleagues at Children's Hospital & Research Center Oakland (Oakland, CA, USA), was published in the March 2008 issue of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology -- The FASEB Journal. Dr. Atamna's study revealed that methylene blue could prevent or slow the decline of mitochondrial function, specifically an important enzyme called complex IV (enzyme cytochrome c oxidase). Because mitochondria are the principal suppliers of energy to all animal and human cells, their healthy function is critical.

"The results are very encouraging,” said Dr. Atamna. "We'd eventually like to try to prevent the physical and cognitive decline associated with aging, with a focus on people with Alzheimer's disease. One of the key aspects of Alzheimer's disease is mitochondrial dysfunction, specifically complex IV dysfunction, which methylene blue improves. Our findings indicate that methylene blue, by enhancing mitochondrial function, expands the mitochondrial reserve of the brain. Adequate mitochondrial reserve is essential for preventing age-related disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.”

Also impressed is one of Dr. Atamna's co-authors, Bruce Ames, Ph.D., a senior scientist at Children's and world-renowned expert in nutrition and aging. "What we potentially have is a wonder drug,” stated Dr. Ames. "To find that such a common and inexpensive drug can be used to increase and prolong the quality of life by treating such serious diseases is truly exciting.”

Methylene blue, discovered in 1891 by Paul Ehrlich, is now used to treat methemoglobinemia, a blood disorder. But because high concentrations of methylene blue were known to damage the brain, no one thought to experiment with low concentrations. In addition, drugs such as methylene blue do not easily reach the brain.

Dr. Atamna's study is the first to show that low concentrations of the drug have the ability to slow cellular aging in cultured cells in the laboratory and in live mice. He believes methylene blue has the potential to become another commonplace low-cost treatment like aspirin, prescribed as a blood thinner for people with heart disorders.

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Children's Hospital & Research Center Oakland