Oligomannate

Oligomannate is derived from an extract of marine brown algae. While the exact mechanism by which it works is not yet known, it is thought to modulate the connection between the bacterial communities in the gut (also called the microbiome) and the brain.

In preclinical studies, oligomannate was able to reduce harmful metabolites produced by the gut microbiome, lessen inflammation, decrease the deposition of beta-amyloid protein in the brain, and improve cognitive function in a mouse model.

Oligomannate in clinical trials

A Phase 3 clinical trial (NCT02293915) evaluated the safety and efficacy of oligomannate in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease at 16 sites across China. A total of 818 patients were randomly assigned to receive either 900 mg of oligomannate twice a day for 24 weeks, or placebo.

The primary outcome measured was improvements in the Alzheimer’s disease assessment scale-cognitive subscale (a measure of cognitive and non-cognitive abilities). For this, a physician evaluates the patient on seven performance items covering memory, orientation, and language. The physician also assesses the patients’ agitation, mood, psychosis, attention, ability to concentrate, and changes in weight.

Complete results of the trial have not been published, but Shanghai Green Valley Pharmaceuticals has announced that significant improvement in cognitive function was present in patients treated with oligomannate after four weeks of treatment. The improvement was sustained at all follow-up assessments over the entirety of the nine-month treatment period.

Oligomannate was safe and well tolerated, with side effects similar to placebo.

***

Alzheimer’s News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.