Infrared Helmet for Alzheimer's

Scientists are set to test an experimental helmet which they believe can reverse the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Looking like a prop from an old science fiction movie, this odd-looking helmet is designed to safely emit low levels of infra-red light into the brain and stimulate the growth of brain cells.

Although the therapy is a potentially revolutionary treatment, scientists practically stumbled upon the application. Infra-red light was being studied as a treatment for cold sores, when scientists discovered that the light stimulated cell growth. Scientists at the University of Sunderland tested the infra-red light theory on mice and reported promising results - it improved learning ability and reversed memory loss.

The study of the effects of infra-red light therapy on people will begin this summer. Participants in the study, about 100 people with age-related memory problems, will wear the helmet for about 10 minutes a day. Scientists are hoping to see the same beneficial results in humans as they saw in mice.

If the results show that infra-red light therapy is able to reverse the memory loss and anxiety associated with dementia, it could change the lives of the hundreds of thousands of people who suffer from Alzheimer's disease.