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 […]
Alzheimer’s / Dementia
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 […]
Extra virgin olive oil may protect against various dementias
New research in mice suggests that adopting a diet rich in extra virgin olive oil can prevent the toxic accumulation of the protein tau, which is a hallmark of multiple types of dementia. Share on PinterestExtra virgin olive oil ‘has many benefits for health.’ Due to its monounsaturated fatty acids, or “good” fats, extra virgin […]
Inflammation drives tau damage in Alzheimer’s
Scientists have found an inflammation mechanism that appears to play a key role in the formation of the toxic tau proteins that characterize Alzheimer’s and other brain diseases. Share on PinterestNew research finds that inflammation is responsible for the tau protein damage in Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in […]
Alzheimer’s: Poor air quality may contribute to cognitive decline
More evidence points to the idea that air pollution may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. A new study suggests that tiny polluting particles carried by dirty air can enter the brain, possibly contributing to cognitive decline. Share on PinterestWomen living in highly polluted areas are likelier to experience cognitive decline. It is no secret […]
Study finds no link between statin use and memory harm in older adults
There is no link between statin use and memory impairment, researchers have concluded, after evaluating effects of the cholesterol-lowering drugs over 6 years in more than 1,000 older people in Australia. Share on PinterestNew research reinforces the idea that statins are safe for older adults to use. A team from the Garvan Institute of Medical […]
Illiteracy may triple dementia risk
New research suggests that not being able to read or write can raise the chances of developing dementia by two or three times. Share on PinterestNot being able to read or write may dramatically increase the risk of dementia, according to a new study. According to the United States Department of Education, 1 in 5 […]
Why is my leg shaking?
Leg shaking can be a subtle annoyance or an intense experience that causes muscle tension and difficulty walking. Many issues, ranging from restless legs syndrome (RLS) to serious conditions such as dementia, can cause someone’s leg to shake. It is not possible to diagnose the cause of shaky legs based on symptoms alone. For this […]
Retinal imaging shows promise in early detection of Alzheimer’s
An analysis of how the retina of the eye scatters light shows promise as an aid for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Share on PinterestExamining how the retina disperses light can provide insight into Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis came to this conclusion after carrying out a recent study, […]