A marijuana compound may offer treatment for Alzheimer's disease, according to a recent study.

Researchers from the University of South Florida found that extremely low levels of the compound in marijuana known as the delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, may slow or halt the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

"THC is known to be a potent antioxidant with neuroprotective properties, but this is the first report that the compound directly affects Alzheimer's pathology by decreasing amyloid beta levels, inhibiting its aggregation, and enhancing mitochondrial function," Chuanhai Cao, lead author of the study, said in a statement. "Decreased levels of amyloid beta means less aggregation, which may protect against the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Since THC is a natural and relatively safe amyloid inhibitor, THC or its analogs may help us develop an effective treatment in the future."

For the study, the research team showed that extremely low doses of THC reduce the production of amyloid beta, found in a soluble form in most aging brains, and prevent abnormal accumulation of this protein -- a process considered one of the pathological hallmarks evident early in the memory-robbing disease. These low concentrations of THC also selectively enhanced mitochondrial function, which is needed to help supply energy, transmit signals, and maintain a healthy brain.

The researchers point out that at the low doses studied, the therapeutic benefits of THC appear to prevail over the associated risks of THC toxicity and memory impairment.

"While we are still far from a consensus, this study indicates that THC and THC-related compounds may be of therapeutic value in Alzheimer's disease," Neel Nabar, co-author of the study, said in a statement. "These findings may lead to the development of related compounds that are safe, legal, and useful in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease."

The findings were recently published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.