New Alzheimer's research excites scientists

Australian researchers have discovered that non-brain invasive ultrasound technology can treat Alzheimer's disease and even restore memory.

The University of Queensland (UQLD) announced the findings on Thursday, saying the new treatment could work without the need for drugs.

In a statement UQLD said researchers discovered blocks similar to plaque on teeth - in brain neurons which cause memory loss and cognitive decline can be unlocked by ultrasound technology.

Professor Jurgen Gotz of Australia's Ageing Dementia Research body said the new treatment method could revolutionize Alzheimer' s treatment by restoring memory.

"We're extremely excited by this innovation of treating Alzheimer's without using drug therapeutics," Gotz said.

"The ultrasound waves oscillate tremendously quickly, activating microglial cells that digest and remove the amyloid plaques that destroy brain synapses.

"The word 'breakthrough'is often misused, but in this case I think this really does fundamentally change our understanding of how to treat this disease, and I foresee a great future for this approach."

Professor Perry Bartlett of the UQLD's Brain Institute said government and charity funding had allowed the research.

"The farsighted investment of government and philanthropic partners has allowed us to build the research excellence and capacity required to make major discoveries such as this," he said.

"I believe the work opens up an entirely novel avenue for future therapeutic treatment."

Alzheimer's affects more than two-thirds of dementia patients, and approximately 250,000 Australians.

The total number of dementia cases in Australia is expected to rise to 900,000 by 2050, the UQLD statement said. Endi