Alzheimer’s disease is linked to the formation of protein plaques in the brain, but how these plaques form is still not clear. A new study has found key genetic markers that are linked to plaque formation and disease progression, and regulate the levels of the proteins that aggregate into plaques. People who have a buildup… [Continue Reading]
Genetic Markers Linked to Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and Hint at Potential Treatments
April 5, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Sleep Problems Precede Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
March 11, 2013 By Leave a Comment
New research suggests that sleep troubles are one of the earliest symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, preceding memory loss. Work in animal models of the disease had found that plaques in the brain are linked to disrupted sleep, and a new study in humans has found that those in preclinical phases of the disease have poorer… [Continue Reading]
Changing A Particular Protein Eases Symptoms in Mouse Model of Alzheimers
November 30, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Researchers have shown that a protein that functions to modify DNA may play a key role in Alzheimer’s disease. The study examined a mouse model of the condition, and found that eliminating one particular protein improved memory and cognition in the mice. Scientists from the DZNE sites in Göttingen and Bonn, the UMG as well… [Continue Reading]
Perception and Memory Difficulties May Both Contribute to Alzheimer’s Symptoms
October 17, 2012 By Leave a Comment
While it has been though that Alzheimer’s patients fail to recognize familiar faces is due to problems with memory, new research suggests that perceiving faces may also play a role in the disease. Psychologists at the University of Toronto and the Georgia Institute of Technology – commonly known as Georgia Tech – have shown that… [Continue Reading]
Advances in Alzheimer’s Disease Research Give Insights into Spread of Disease
February 6, 2012 By Leave a Comment
New models of Alzheimer’s disease are helping scientists better understand how the condition progresses in the brain. Researchers have discovered part of the process through which a key protein is transferred between brain cells. Further insights into the movement of the protein could suggests ways to stop disease progression. Two different research groups have independently… [Continue Reading]
Hormone Produced By Fat Cells Linked to Alzheimer’s Disease
January 3, 2012 By Leave a Comment
A long-term study examining factors that might predict the development of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia has found a link between a certain hormone and the conditions. The hormone adiponectin is involved in regulating sugar metabolism and insulin function, and higher levels in the body correlate with an increased risk of dementia. A hormone derived from… [Continue Reading]
Study Suggests Mid-Life Cholesterol Levels Not Linked Alzheimer’s
November 11, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Contrary to earlier research, a new, long-term study suggests that cholesterol level in mid-life may not be linked to later development of Alzheimer’s disease. However, the results suggest that large decreases in cholesterol levels in old age could be a better predictor of developing the memory-robbing disease. “While some studies suggest that cholesterol is a… [Continue Reading]
Way to Stop a Cause of Damage in Alzheimer’s Disease Identified
November 9, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Researchers suspect that a protein superstructure called amyloid beta is responsible for much of the neural damage of Alzheimer’s disease. A new study shows that amyloid beta disrupts one of the brain’s anti-oxidant proteins and demonstrates a way to protect that protein, and perhaps others, from amyloid’s harmful effects. “Amyloid seems to cause damage to… [Continue Reading]
Speaking Two Languages Delays Alzheimer’s By As Much As Five Years
November 9, 2010 By Leave a Comment
A Canadian science team has found more dramatic evidence that speaking two languages can help delay the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms by as much as five years. The latest study examined the clinical records of more than 200 patients diagnosed with probable Alzheimer’s disease and found that those who have spoken two or more languages… [Continue Reading]
DHA Supplement Improves Memory in Older Adults With Cognitive Decline
November 8, 2010 By Leave a Comment
A study suggests that taking docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) may improve memory and learning in older adults with mild cognitive impairments. This is promising news for many aging Americans who are searching for options to maintain memory and support overall cognitive health. The “Memory Improvement with Docosahexaenoic Acid Study” (MIDAS) was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study… [Continue Reading]