Using Cancer Drugs in Alzheimer's Treatment
Introduction
Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating condition that currently has no cure. With few treatment options available, scientists are exploring alternative methods to slow down the progression of the disease. One potential avenue being explored is the use of cancer drugs as a means of treating Alzheimer’s.
Key Details
Cancer drugs work by targeting specific proteins and pathways that promote cancer growth. Researchers believe that these same proteins and pathways may also contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s. By targeting and inhibiting these factors, it is possible that cancer drugs may also be effective in treating Alzheimer’s.
One study conducted at the University of Cambridge found that a specific cancer drug, bexarotene, was able to reduce the build-up of toxic proteins in the brain that are associated with Alzheimer’s. This resulted in an improvement in cognitive function in the mice used in the study.
Another study at the University of California, San Francisco, found that a combination of two cancer drugs was able to reduce the levels of amyloid beta, a toxic protein found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.
Impact
The use of cancer drugs in Alzheimer’s treatment is still in its early stages and the results are promising. It may provide a new approach to targeting the underlying causes of the disease, instead of just managing the symptoms. However, more research and
About the Organizations Mentioned
University of Cambridge
## Overview The University of Cambridge, established in 1209 in Cambridge, England, is the world’s third-oldest university in continuous operation and consistently ranks among the top universities globally[3][4]. It is a public collegiate research university, organized into 31 semi-autonomous colleges and over 150 academic departments, faculties, and research centers, spanning disciplines from the sciences and engineering to humanities and social sciences[4][5]. With a student population of nearly 25,000—split almost evenly between undergraduates and postgraduates—and a faculty and staff of over 13,000, Cambridge is a vibrant, international academic community, with about 40% of its students coming from outside the UK[5][6]. ## History and Structure Cambridge’s origins trace back to scholars who left the University of Oxford after a dispute with locals, giving rise to the “Oxbridge” tradition shared with Oxford[4]. The university’s collegiate system is unique: each college is a self-governing institution, offering students accommodation, academic support, and a close-knit intellectual community, while central university departments provide lectures, seminars, and research facilities[2][4]. This dual structure fosters both individualized learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. ## Key Achievements Cambridge is renowned for its research excellence and innovation. Its faculty and alumni include 126 Nobel Prize laureates, 47 heads of state, and 217 Olympic medalists[5]. The university has driven breakthroughs in fields such as quantum physics, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, vaccine development, and sustainable architecture[1]. Cambridge’s close ties with industry leaders like Microsoft, AstraZeneca, and ARM have helped create “Silicon Fen,” Europe’s largest technology cluster, with over 5,000 knowledge-intensive firms, many founded by Cambridge graduates[1]. ## Current Status and Global Impact As of 2025, Cambridge remains a global leader in higher education, ranked among the top fiv
University of California, San Francisco
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a renowned institution dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. It was founded through the merger of Toland Medical College, established by Dr. Hugh Toland in 1864, and the University of California in 1873, becoming the Medical Department of the University of California[1][5]. Over the years, UCSF has evolved into a leading center for medical education, research, and patient care. **History and Evolution** UCSF's history dates back to the Gold Rush era, laying the groundwork for modern American biomedicine. In 1964, it gained full administrative independence as the ninth campus of the UC system[2]. The campus has since become a hub for groundbreaking research, including significant contributions to the biotechnology industry and studies on oncogenes and prions[4]. **Key Achievements** UCSF is recognized for its pioneering work in medical research and education. It has been at the forefront of addressing major health issues, such as the AIDS epidemic, and has been involved in numerous scientific breakthroughs, including Nobel Prize-winning research[4]. The university has also been a leader in health policy research and bioengineering advancements. **Current Status** Today, UCSF is a major player in the global health sciences landscape. It boasts a faculty and staff of over 5,500 and is home to more than 8,500 students, all of whom are graduate or professional students[4]. The university's focus on research and innovation continues to drive its success, with ongoing projects in cutting-edge fields like biotechnology and health policy. **Notable Aspects** UCSF is unique in its focus on health sciences, making it a powerhouse in medical research and education. Its commitment to innovation and its role in shaping the biotechnology industry have made it a significant contributor to the San Francisco Bay Area's vibrant tech and business ecosystem. Additionally, UCSF's strong international presence, with over 300 international students, underscores
