Have scientists found a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease … through the use of lasers? A Polish-Swedish team of researchers recently discovered a way to use lasers to zap away the bad proteins in our bodies that cause diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The newly-developed laser can distinguish between healthy proteins and toxic amyloids and zap the bad proteins away without harming the good ones. One of the scientists on the team said this breakthrough was revolutionary because it was the first time anyone thought to try to use light exclusively to fight these diseases. These diseases are currently treated through the use of harmful chemicals that remove the bad proteins, but these chemicals can be harmful to the patient, too. The idea is similar to one thought up by a team of British researchers several years back. Those scientists used infrared light to stimulate brain cell growth and combat the disease. But if this new method works, it would completely eradicate the disease, rather than treat it. Let’s hope so.
About Shelly Palmer
Shelly Palmer is the Professor of Advanced Media in Residence at Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and CEO of The Palmer Group, a consulting practice that helps Fortune 500 companies with AI strategy, implementation and governance, as well as technology, media and marketing. Named one of LinkedIn’s Top Voices in Technology, he is a bestselling author, covers tech and business for Fox 5’s Good Day New York, is a regular commentator on CNN, and writes the popular daily business blog Think About This. Follow @shellypalmer or visit shellypalmer.com.