Category Archives: Research

New Tool That Tracks How the Brain Removes Waste Could Offer Clues About Alzheimer’s

Posted on by

The gold standard for studying movement within neurological networks involves injecting tracer substances into cerebrospinal fluid, the liquid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. But due to the extra volume introduced to the brain system, extra fluid can disrupt normal brain processes and often produces only a broad picture of fluid flow rather than highlighting pathways that could be linked to neurological disease.

“These injected tracers disturb the very system we’re attempting to measure,” said Yang. “We wanted to find a better way.”

Read more HERE

What Your Genetic Risk For Alzheimer’s Means

Posted on by

Scientists have long known that genetics play a role in Alzheimer’s disease risk. Some genetic markers appear to increase the likelihood of developing the condition, while others seem to offer a degree of protection against cognitive decline and brain aging.

One of the most important genes researchers study is called APOE. Everyone inherits two copies, but the specific version you carry may influence how resilient your brain is over time. In particular, one version called APOE4 is strongly linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease, while another, APOE2, is associated with lower risk and even exceptional longevity.

Now, new research may help explain why (and why some may be more resilient to aging than others).

Read more HERE

Lithium’s Surprising Effect on Alzheimer’s

Posted on by

Scientists have identified new ways lithium chloride may interact with Alzheimer’s disease mechanisms at the cellular level.

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland (UEF) suggests lithium chloride may influence several cellular processes linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia. One of its key features is the abnormal phosphorylation and buildup of Tau proteins inside brain cells, along with the accumulation of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques.

Researchers have previously used lithium salts, especially lithium chloride and lithium carbonate, in cell and animal models of AD to reduce Tau hyperphosphorylation and aggregation. However, human clinical trials have produced inconsistent results, with some studies showing little or no improvement in cognitive function.

Read more HERE

Cancer-Like Mutations Found in the Brain May Be Driving Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on by

Scientists have uncovered a surprising overlap between cancer genetics and Alzheimer’s disease, involving mutations in the brain’s immune cells.

As we age, our cells quietly collect genetic mutations—most of them harmless, some potentially dangerous. But what if the same kinds of mutations that fuel cancer are also shaping diseases of the brain?

Read more HERE

Study sheds new light on impact of Alzheimer’s screening for caregivers and family members

Posted on by

A new study conducted by Indiana University School of Medicine researchers has found that primary care screenings for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) in older adults did not cause psychological distress for the patient’s family members, nor did it better prepare those loved ones for caregiving.

The randomized clinical trial, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, is the first study to examine the longer-term benefits, risks and harms of ADRD screening in primary care for family members most likely to assume caregiving responsibilities. It examined 1,808 patient-family member pairs across 29 Indiana clinics. Each patient was at least 65 years old.

Read more HERE

Could Alzheimer’s Begin in the Nerves, Not the Brain?

Posted on by

New research suggests that the balance and walking issues associated with Alzheimer’s disease may not be “top-down” problems caused by brain decay, but rather “bottom-up” failures in the peripheral nervous system.

The study utilized “human-on-a-chip” technology to prove that genetic mutations for familial Alzheimer’s can damage the connection between nerves and muscles directly, independent of the brain or spinal cord.

Read it HERE