Neuroprotective effect of lithium in participants at risk for Alzheimer's Disease

The search for drugs with neuroprotective effects and disease-modifying properties for Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an area of major interest, since the incidence and prevalence of this disorder are predicted to rise exponentially. Thus, new interventions that prevent or delay the emergence of AD would have an enormous impact on clinical practice and public health, particularly in view of the recent failure of most trials with anti-amyloid immunotherapy. This project would facilitate collaboration between 2 groups, with overlapping interests and complementary expertise. Dr. Forlenza`s group in São Paulo has approached the neuroprotective effects of Li by running treatment trials in aMCI. Dr. Hajek`s team in Halifax has investigated the effects of Li on brain structure in bipolar disorders. This proposal intends to research a highly interesting neuroprotective treatment (Li), which is supported by an extensive body of evidence, in a vulnerable population (people at risk for AD), with the ultimate goal of preventing or delaying the onset of dementia. (AU)