March 2, 2022
A monthly recap of the latest news about Alzheimer’s and dementia
UCI biologists discover how a protective mutation may reduce Alzheimer’s risk
While the word “mutation” may conjure up alarming notions, a mutation in brain immune cells serves a positive role in protecting people against Alzheimer’s disease. Now University of California, Irvine biologists have discovered the mechanisms behind this crucial process. Read more here.
Could the bacteria that causes gum disease also trigger Alzheimer’s?
The same bacteria that causes gingivitis is associated with Alzheimer’s disease. A 26-year-long study published in 2020 identified that the gingivitis-causing Porphyromonas gingivalis is linked with increased Alzheimer’s risk, and in mice, research has shown that P. gingivalis does reach the brain, causing neural damage and inflammation. Read more here.
New imaging scan reveals a culprit in cognitive decline of Alzheimer’s
Advanced imaging technology developed by Yale researchers has helped them confirm that the destruction of brain synapses underlies the cognitive deficits experienced by patients with Alzheimer’s disease, according to a study published Feb. 17 in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. Read more here.
High blood pressure may lower or raise dementia risk among older adults depending on age
The prospective observational study showed that high systolic blood pressure in people more than 60 years old decreases the risk of dementia, but both lower and higher blood pressure are associated with decreased dementia risk in people older than 75. Read more here.
Blood test can predict presence of beta-amyloid in the brain, new study finds
The new blood test, which performs comparably to existing brain scan- or spinal tap-based tests, could lower costs and expand the availability of diagnostic studies for Alzheimer’s disease. Read more here.
USC endocrinologist takes Alzheimer’s disease research in new directions
By studying the APOE4 gene and its impact on brain inflammation and metabolism of fatty acids, Keck School of Medicine of USC researchers discover potential new ways to prevent cognitive decline. Read more here.
