Bottomline: Valproic acid reduced brain lesions, healed brain cells and improved memory in an animal model of Alzheimer's disease.   J Exp Med. 2008 Oct 27. [Epub ahead of print].

Background: There has been no effective method for the treatment or prevention of Alzheimer's disease. Previous research suggests that valproic acid, a drug used in the treatment of epilepsy and bipolar disorder, might reduce amyloid beta-protein, the central component of neural plaques and a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.

Summary: Researchers examined the effects of valproic acid on Alzheimer's pathology in the brain and identified its underlying mechanism.  Valproic acid reduced the neuro plaque formation, improved memory deficits and prompted damaged nerves to start repairing themselves in transgenic mice. 

Study Quote: "Our data suggest that VPA (valproic acid) is effective for antiamyloid therapy in the prevention and treatment of AD (Alzheimer's Disease)" 

Comment: Valproic acid is the medication used for treating mania in bipolar disorder and it works by limiting the arachidonic acid cascade. (See Arachidonic Acid-The Omega-6 Fat Connection to Bipolar Mood Disorder)  Interestingly, recent studies have associated increased arachidonic acid with Alzheimer's disease. (See  Brain Image Study Shows Increased Arachidonic Acid in Alzheimer's Patients with Arachidonic Acid: The Omega-6 Fat Linked to Alzheimer's Disease)

Link to Study:
Qing H. et al. Valproic acid inhibits A{beta} production, neuritic plaque formation, and behavioral deficits in Alzheimer's disease mouse models. J Exp Med. 2008 Oct 27. [Epub ahead of print].