METHYLENE BLUE

Methylene blue (MB) was first synthesized in 1876 as a textile dye and by 1891 was being investigated for its medicinal applications. First it was used as a medical grade histopathologic stain to differentiate certain bacteria, visualize human tissue, as well as view the cell nucleus. Soon after, methylene blue was used to treat malaria and in 1933 it was redefined as the antidote to carbon monoxide and cyanide poisoning.

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HOW IT WORKS

The mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) is the main source of ATP otherwise known as cellular currency. Electrons are transferred from NADH to CoQ10 via Complex I. Complex II acts similarly in that it transfers electrons to CoQ10, and ultimately electrons reach complex III and IV. Electron leakage occurs from Complex I and III and results in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS are oxidative compounds that damage cellular apparatuses, membranes, nuclei, and can lead to dysfunction and disease. MB demonstrates the ability to deliver electrons directly to Complex IV through an alternative reroute. This allows for increase ATP and cellular function without the potential for electron leakage and subsequent damage to cellular components.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS

Methylene Blue and Neuroinflammation

The brain is remarkably dependent on oxidative metabolism consuming 20% of the boy’s total glucose (sugar) and oxygen at rest. Proper mitochondrial function is imperative to brain health and dysfunctional mitochondria are implicated in several neurodegenerative conditions. MB rewires the mitochondria and decreases subsequent oxidative damage and ATP decline. Additionally, MB supports neurogenesis by ameliorating neuroinflammation and promoting neurite outgrowth and synaptogenesis. In this manner, MB can prevent neuronal damage and may facilitate neuronal repair.

Methylene Blue and Ischemic Brain Injury (TBI) / Concussion / Stroke

As listed above, MB can have profound effects on mitochondrial respiration. When the brain experiences ischemia – whether from a concussion, stroke, or other mechanism of injury – blood flow significantly decreases and therefore oxygen delivery is impaired. This results in an increase in inflammatory markers that can damage the blood brain barrier (BBB). Once impaired, macrophages (a type of white blood cell) can cross the BBB and enter the brain causing further inflammation and damage to the brain tissue.

MB has been shown to protect the integrity of the BBB and can act as a surrogate electron donor in mitochondrial respiration. With its ability to enhance synaptogenesis and modulate neuroinflammation, MB can significantly increase outcomes in patients experiencing TBI, concussions, or post-stroke symptoms.

Methylene Blue and cognitive decline and neuro-degeneration

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD): Is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting 1 in 9 adults over 65, is the leading cause of dementia in the US, and is the 6th most common cause of death in the US. Classically this disease is characterized with beta-amyloid plaque, neurofibrillary tangles, and hyperphosphorylated tau protein. MB decreases hyperphosphorylated tau protein build up and prevents beta-amyloid plaque formation. MB has not been shown to effect neurofibrillary tangles.

Parkinson’s Disease: Is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder 2nd only to Alzheimer’s disease and results from dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) region of the brain. The classic histologic findings are Lewy Bodies and alpha-syniclein protein aggregates. MB acts to support mitochondrial function and thereby improve neurologic efficiency. And, MB has monoamine oxidase inhibitory (MAOI) effects which act to prevent the breakdown of dopamine and preserve neuronal exposure and improve symptoms of tremor, locomotion, posture, and motor skills.

WHAT IT CAN BE USED FOR

Due to the many indications of the Methylene Blue, it can be used for many conditions. To assess if you could benefit from Methylene Blue, contact our team of qualified health professionals at Radiant Health & Wellness. It is important to be evaluated before starting Methylene Blue therapy by a qualified healthcare professional as there are possible side effects and cautions with the use of Methylene Blue.

What a treatment session looks like

A typical treatment will involve a 60 minute initial consultation with one of our qualified Naturopathic Doctors where they will address your past medical history, important details of your chief concerns, and assess your overall candidacy for the therapy (ie. allergies, current medications, supplements…etc.).

The Methylene Blue therapy consists of a simple intravenous administration of the compound over 1-2 hours. During the infusion our patients can relax in our comfortable IV suite or a separate treatment room where they may receive another type of therapy to best meet their individual goals.

Source: From Mitochondrial Function to Neuroprotection – An Emerging Role for Methylene Blue