What is methylene blue?
Methylene blue (methylthioninium chloride) is a bright blue dye, which was first made of coal cabbage in 1876. Originally it served as Coloring medium in the textile industry, but soon his potential for medicine showed.
History: From the colored medication to the medication
The German doctor and biochemist Paul Ehrlich Discovered around 1880 that methylene blue Cell structures selectively colored. This made it possible to make fabric samples and microorganisms under the microscope much better visible.
Medical effects were soon recognized: Methylene blue could Fighting malaria parasites and the Improve oxygen transport in the bloodBy changing methemoglobin (Fe³⁺) to functional hemoglobin (Fe²⁺).
These properties made methylene blue first synthetic antimalaria - A milestone in the history of medicine.
Methylene blue in medicine: applications
To date, methylene blue is used in a variety of use:
• Treatment of methemoglobinemia - restores the blood's oxygen transportability.
• Antidot for poisoning - z. B. in cyanid poisoning.
• Surgical diagnostics - as a dye for tissue and lymph nodes.
• Antiseptic - acts against bacteria and mushrooms.
Modern research: Methylene blue and Alzheimer & Co.
Methylene blue is currently in focus again. Studies indicate exciting opportunities:
• Antioxidative effect: Neutralizes free radicals and reduces oxidative stress.
• Neuroprotection: Promotes mitochondrial energy production and could protect nerve cells.
• Alzheimer's & Parkinson's: The first clues show that methylene blue reduces deposits of amyloid beta and dew proteins in the brain.
• Cognitive increase in performance: Small studies found an improvement in memory at low doses.
• Cancer research: It is examined whether methylene blue can inhibit the growth of tumors.
👉 These results are promising, but not yet confirmed by major clinical studies.
Risks and side effects of methylene blue
As effective as methylene blue can be, there are also risks:
• Side effects: Nausea, headache, skin and mucous membrane irritation with higher doses.
• Interactions: Beware of antidepressants-a dangerous serotonin syndrome can occur here.
Conclusion: a versatile fabric with a future
Methylene blue has had a fascinating journey: from a simple coloring medium to the medication with a wide range of applications. Whether at Poisoning, in surgery or in Alzheimer's research - This blue fabric remains exciting.
While risks must be observed, methylene blue is considered today promising candidate for new therapies in medicine.
