Stable Carnosic Acid Derivative Shows Promise in Alzheimer's Disease Models

Researchers at the Scripps Research Institute have synthesized a stable derivative of carnosic acid, a compound known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The new derivative, called diAcCA, demonstrated improvements in memory, increased neuronal synapses, reduced inflammation, and enhanced clearance of toxic proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease in animal models. In a study published in *Antioxidants*, mice genetically modified to develop Alzheimer's received diAcCA or a placebo three times a week for three months. Results showed that diAcCA is converted into carnosic acid in the intestine and its absorption improves by 20% compared to pure carnosic acid, reaching therapeutic levels in the brain within an hour. The compound showed no toxic effects in the treated mice. Clinical trials in humans are needed to confirm these effects. Researchers suggest that its anti-inflammatory properties could extend its application to other inflammatory conditions like type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's disease. It may also enhance the effectiveness of current anti-amyloid antibody treatments.