Category Archives: Research

Pollution May Increase Risk For Alzheimer’s Disease, New Study Shows

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A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that increased pollution exposure may be a key driver for risk of Alzheimer’s disease. In a study that examined nearly 27.8 million US Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older over an 18 year time period, it was found that pollution exposure (measured by PM2.5) was associated with a significantly increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The research also found that pollution exposure is associated with an increased risk for the development of hypertension, depression and stroke, all of which are independent risk factors themselves for Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Read the full article HERE

Warning Sign That People Mistake For A Character Flaw, And It’s Actually Breaking My Heart

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“The brain damage from Alzheimer’s makes people prone to agitation regardless of how loving caregivers are,” said Stefanacci, who also specializes in older populations and Alzheimer’s.

According to information the Alliance of Aging Research sent to HuffPost, “agitation” in this sense can present itself in a variety of ways: pacing, trying to leave, angry outbursts, profanity, hitting, mood swings, throwing items and more. Caregivers may blame themselves, AAR continued, thinking it’s a result of their burnout, introducing a new routine or not being patient enough. 

Study of 27.8M Americans May Have Revealed Direct Alzheimer’s Cause

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Scientists have just found a direct link between air pollution and Alzheimer’s disease—suggesting that improving air quality could be an important way to prevent dementia and protect older adults. 

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, which affects about 57 million people worldwide, and there is currently no cure for it, making prevention is crucial. 

Read more about this study HERE

Scientists discover brain switches that clear Alzheimer’s plaques

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Researchers have identified two brain receptors that help the brain clear away amyloid beta, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. By stimulating these receptors in mice, scientists increased levels of a natural amyloid-breaking enzyme, reduced buildup in the brain, and improved memory-related behavior. Because these receptors are common drug targets, the findings could open the door to affordable pill-based treatments with fewer side effects.

Read more HERE

AI uncovers the hidden genetic control centers driving Alzheimer’s

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Scientists have created the most detailed maps yet of how genes control one another inside the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease. Using a powerful new AI-based system called SIGNET, the team uncovered cause-and-effect relationships between genes across six major brain cell types, revealing which genes are truly driving harmful changes. The most dramatic disruptions were found in excitatory neurons, where thousands of genetic interactions appear to be extensively rewired as the disease progresses.

Read more about it HERE