What If A Few Breaths Of CO2 Could Help Fight Alzheimer’s? Research Sparks Hope - Dallas Express

What the report says

Dallas Express reported that researchers have presented preliminary findings suggesting brief, controlled inhalation of carbon dioxide-enriched air may stimulate the brain’s glymphatic system, a waste-clearing pathway linked to removal of proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The work was led by Dr. Sephira Ryman of the University of New Mexico School of Medicine and the Mind Research Network and was presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in London, held July 12-15, 2026.

According to the report, participants wore masks that delivered alternating short bursts of CO2-rich air during sessions totaling about 30 minutes. Researchers observed signs of increased movement of cerebrospinal fluid, improved clearance of tau from the brain, and higher amyloid beta levels in the bloodstream, which they interpreted as evidence that proteins were being moved out of the brain. The article said the method builds on Ryman’s earlier work on intermittent hypercapnia, including research involving healthy participants and people with Parkinson’s disease.

The potential significance is that Alzheimer’s and related dementias involve the buildup of proteins such as tau and amyloid beta, while the glymphatic system is believed to help clear metabolic waste, especially during deep sleep. If validated, a non-drug approach that enhances this process could become a complement to existing therapies.

However, Dallas Express emphasized that the study is small and early-stage. Larger trials are still needed to determine safety, dosing, long-term effects, and whether the approach improves cognition or disease outcomes. The report also noted that CO2 inhalation can carry risks if not carefully controlled, particularly for vulnerable patients or people with respiratory conditions, and it is not currently recommended as a treatment.