"Passive thermotherapy positively modulates multiple physiological parameters and represents a nonpharmacological approach for potential disease modifying treatment."
BUFFALO, NY- December 17, 2024 – A new research paper was published in Aging (listed by MEDLINE/PubMed as "Aging (Albany NY)" and "Aging-US" by Web of Science) Volume 16, Issue 21 on November 29, 2024, entitled, " Thermotherapy has sexually dimorphic responses in APP/PS1 mice. "
Researchers Samuel A. McFadden, Mackenzie R. Peck, Lindsey N. Sime, MaKayla F. Cox, Erol D. Ikiz, Caleigh A. Findley, Kathleen Quinn, Yimin Fang, Andrzej Bartke, Erin R. Hascup, and Kevin N. Hascup from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine , found that raising body temperature through heat therapy improved memory in male mice with Alzheimer's disease but worsened memory in females. These findings emphasize the importance of personalized treatments based on sex-specific responses to therapy.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive brain disorder characterized by memory loss and confusion. It is caused by the buildup of harmful proteins like beta-amyloid, which damages brain cells over time. In this study, genetically modified mice predisposed to develop Alzheimer disease (APP/PS1 mice) were kept in warmer environments for six months to explore the effects of heat therapy on memory and metabolism.
The results revealed that male mice benefited from the therapy, with improved memory and reduced levels of beta-amyloid in their brains. Female mice, however, experienced a worsening of memory, likely due to increased inflammation triggered by the heat therapy. Inflammation, where the immune system is hyperactivated, can harm brain cells and worsen Alzheimer's disease symptoms.
"Thermotherapy improved spatial navigation in male C57BL/6 and APP/PS1 mice, with the later attributed to reduced hippocampal soluble amyloid-β (Aβ)42. Female APP/PS1 mice exhibited worse spatial memory recall after chronic thermotherapy."
Heat therapy is already known to provide general health benefits, such as improving heart health and regulating blood sugar. This study suggests it could also offer a simple, non-drug approach to slowing Alzheimer's progression, particularly for men. Unlike exercise, which offers similar benefits, heat therapy is accessible for people who are weak or unable to engage in physical activity.
While these findings are promising, the researchers emphasize the need for more studies to understand why men and women respond so differently to heat therapy. Future research should also investigate whether the results can be replicated in humans and how the therapy can be tailored to individual needs.
In conclusion, heat therapy could present a safe and practical option for managing Alzheimer's disease, particularly in men. However, the observed gender differences highlight the importance of further research to refine its therapeutic potential and ensure it benefits everyone.
Read the full paper: DOI: https://doi.org/10.18632/aging.206156
