Brain atrophy refers to a loss of brain cells or a loss in the number of connections between brain cells. People who experience brain atrophy typically develop poorer cognitive functioning as a result of this type of brain damage. There are two main types of brain atrophy: focal atrophy, which occurs in specific brain regions, […]
Alzheimer’s / Dementia
Could hydration levels influence cognitive function?
Dehydration can cause headaches and several physiological issues, and older adults are most at risk of experiencing it. Does it also affect cognitive function, however? And might overhydration also affect mental performance? Share on PinterestRecent research set out to reveal whether or not hydration levels can affect cognitive performance in older adults. Dehydration can cause […]
What causes Alzheimer’s? Not toxic amyloid, new study suggests
Many researchers have argued that the accumulation of toxic beta-amyloid in the brain causes Alzheimer’s. However, a new study offers some evidence contradicting this sequence. Share on PinterestNew research is questioning the predominant hypothesis that a buildup of beta-amyloid causes Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease affects over 5.5 million people in the United States and millions […]
Scientists draw closer to a dementia vaccine
Although a vaccine for dementia is a long way down the road, researchers recently made a few tentative steps closer. The authors of a recent study in mice hope that in the coming years, they can move into human trials. Share on PinterestScientists believe that they are on the path to a vaccine against dementia. […]
Dementia: Obesity, but not diet or inactivity, raises risk
A new, long-term study finds that midlife obesity raises the risk of dementia in women. However, calorie intake and physical inactivity do not. Share on PinterestObesity in midlife may raise a woman’s risk of dementia later on, new research suggests. Sarah Floud, Ph.D., of the Nuffield Department of Population Health at the University of Oxford […]
Inflammatory marker could be early warning for dementia
A new study has found a blood plasma linked to inflammation that could be a warning signal for certain dementias. Could it pave the way for low cost screening? Share on PinterestAn inflammation marker in the blood could help predict dementia. Every 65 seconds, someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, around […]
How two experimental Alzheimer’s drugs reverse aging
New research in mice reveals the mechanisms through which two experimental drugs that may treat Alzheimer’s disease have broader, anti-aging properties and can reverse age-related cognitive decline. Share on PinterestNew research explains how two experimental dementia drugs may reverse normal aging. Family history, genes, and some lifestyle choices all influence a person’s risk of Alzheimer’s […]
Transport breakdown in brain cells may lead to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s
After studying the process in mice and flies, scientists suggest that failure to transport the molecular machines that break down proteins in cells could lie at the heart of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Share on PinterestFaulty transportation mechanisms within nerve cells may lead to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. The ability […]
Repairing leaky blood-brain barrier may rejuvenate brain function
New research in mice questions the idea that “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” The answer may lie in preserving the blood-brain barrier, which tends to become leaky with age. Share on PinterestNew research looks at the decline of brain functions that accompanies aging. The blood-brain barrier is a complex set of blood […]
Alzheimer’s risk gene and heavy metal exposure may impair cognition
A new study in mice finds that cadmium exposure, combined with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s, can trigger symptoms of cognitive decline. Share on PinterestFor people with a key risk gene, exposure to cadmium may raise the risk of cognitive impairment, suggests new research in mice. The so-called human apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene encodes instructions […]