Research on reversing Alzheimer’s reveals lithium as potential key

Original story by: The Washington Post Last updated: 6 Aug 2025

• Context:A new study by Harvard Medical School researchers suggests that lithium plays a crucial role in Alzheimer’s disease, potentially opening doors for earlier detection and new treatments. The study found that restoring lithium levels in mice reversed the disease and improved brain function. However, experts emphasize that further research is needed before lithium can be considered a treatment for humans.
• Detailed Summary:
  • Researchers at Harvard Medical School discovered that lithium deficiency significantly contributes to Alzheimer’s disease.
  • The study showed that administering lithium orotate to mice with Alzheimer’s reversed the disease and restored brain function, using amounts that mimic natural levels in the brain.
  • The findings could lead to earlier Alzheimer’s detection through the measurement of lithium levels in cerebrospinal fluid or blood.
  • Lithium plays several roles in maintaining brain health including maintaining neuronal connections, forming myelin, and assisting microglial cells in clearing cellular debris.
  • Lithium depletion accelerates the formation of amyloid beta plaques and tau tangles, which are hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.
  • The research team found that the brain’s natural lithium levels are significantly lower than those used in bipolar disorder treatments.
  • Experts, while excited by the findings, emphasize the need for clinical trials in humans, as well as that it is not currently recommended as a treatment.
  • Lithium orotate’s potential lies in its low dosage, potentially minimizing harmful side effects.
  • The study suggests lithium could potentially treat Parkinson’s disease, an area the researchers are now investigating.