Science

Scientists say controlled CO2 bursts may clear Alzheimer's proteins

The study could open the door to eventual clinical trials that test efficacy, benefits, and safety. ©Image Credit: Unsplash / engin akyurt

Alzheimer's research has taken another interesting turn, this time uses short pulses of carbon dioxide inhaled through a face mask. The data shows that it could help clear out the toxic proteins that are linked to Alzheimer's disease.

CO2-enriched air could help flush out toxins

Imagine being able to put on a mask, inhale CO2-enriched air, and potentially help reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Well, that's exactly what a recent study looked at.

The 2025 study took place at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine and The Mind Research Network, led by Dr. Sephira Ryman.

The study focused on intermittent exposure to inhaled CO2-enriched air and how it worked to move the cerebrospinal fluid, which then flushed out toxic proteins such as tau.

Researchers saw improved clearance of tau protein from the participants' brains and higher levels of amyloid beta in their bloodstream.

Short sessions with pulses of CO2 were used

The researchers used short sessions of around 30 minutes in total, delivering short bursts of CO2 through a mask.

When the participant inhaled the CO2, their blood vessels in their brain dilated and constricted. It worked like a pump so that fluid moved easily through the brain tissue.

“This dilation and constriction essentially serves as a pump that clears waste from the brain,” said Ryman.

Results recently shared at an international conference

The results of the study were shared earlier in the month at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) in London.

In the presentation, the study was described as small and preliminary, with a need for larger clinical trials. Clinical trials will be able to assess things like efficacy, long-term safety, and benefits for cognitive decline.

There are an estimated 7.4 million Americans age 65 and older who have Alzheimer's dementia.

Working towards a cure

Any breakthrough in Alzheimer's disease is welcome, as researchers work towards finding a cure. If you're decades away from your golden years, the idea of Alzheimer's being treatable is pretty positive.

Source: The Dallas Express

Coca-Cola is changing its cans but not its recipe

The next time you shop for Coca-Cola at the grocery store, it may look different. Coca-Cola is undergoing a major packaging rebrand, changing up its iconic can design and logo. Company launches sneak peek video You won't even have to wait long to see the rebranded

Walmart is selling a $270 water dispenser for $119

Having instant access to the right water temperature can make life a little more convenient, whether you're making coffee or grabbing a cold drink on a hot afternoon. This Walmart deal makes adding that convenience to your home or office much more affordable. Right now, you can score

FDA announces recall of 1.6 million dozen eggs sold at Kroger

You might want to check your eggs before making your next omelet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced a massive recall of more than 1.6 million dozen eggs after concerns they may be contaminated with Salmonella. The affected eggs were distributed across six states and sold

Capital One customers may wait a year for $425 million payout

If you were expecting a payout from Capital One's $425 million class action settlement to arrive any day now, you may want to lower your expectations and set your mind on next year. A legal appeal has put the brakes on the settlement and eligible customers could be