A groundbreaking study suggests poor brain oxygenation may drive Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers found altered blood flow and brain function in patients, highlighting a potential new treatment target.
Scientists at Lancaster University, in collaboration with the University of Ljubljana Medical Centre, found that disrupted brain oxygenation contributes to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s patients. Their findings, published in Brain Communications, emphasize how the brain relies on efficient blood flow to function properly.
Professor Aneta Stefanovska, lead author, stated, “Alzheimer’s may result from the brain not receiving enough nourishment through the blood vessels.”
Dr. Bernard Meglič, clinical coordinator, added, “The brain consumes 20% of the body’s energy. It makes up only 2% of body weight. A well-functioning vascular system is crucial.”
NEUROVASCULAR UNIT: A KEY PLAYER IN BRAIN HEALTH
The neurovascular unit (NVU) plays a vital role in brain function. It consists of blood vessels, neurons, and supporting cells called astrocytes, ensuring the brain receives necessary oxygen and nutrients.
To analyze NVU function, researchers used innovative methods to measure brain activity and blood oxygenation non-invasively. They placed electrical and optical sensors on participants’ scalps while recording heart rate and breathing patterns.
MEASURING BRAIN FUNCTION THROUGH PHYSIOLOGICAL RHYTHMS
The team examined how blood flow, brain activity, and breathing rhythms synchronize. This coordination is crucial for efficient brain function. They used mathematical algorithms to assess power and phase coherence of these physiological rhythms.
One striking discovery was a difference in breathing rates. Healthy individuals averaged 13 breaths per minute, while Alzheimer’s patients had an elevated rate of 17 breaths per minute.
INCREASED BREATHING RATE IN ALZHEIMER’S PATIENTS
Professor Stefanovska described this as “a revolutionary finding” that could transform how Alzheimer’s is studied. “Higher respiratory rates may indicate inflammation in the brain, which, if detected early, might be treatable.”
This revelation suggests a new potential biomarker for early Alzheimer’s detection. If breathing rate changes can be linked to brain inflammation, interventions may help prevent severe disease progression.
Most Alzheimer’s treatments focus on reducing amyloid plaques and tau tangles. However, recent drug trials targeting these proteins have largely disappointed. This research suggests vascular health could be a more promising therapeutic avenue.
Dr. Meglič emphasized, “With protein-focused drugs yielding underwhelming results, targeting the vascular system and neurovascular unit may offer better outcomes.”
THE FUTURE OF ALZHEIMER’S DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
This study offers a non-invasive and cost-effective way to detect Alzheimer’s early. Researchers hope their findings lead to practical diagnostic tools.
Professor Stefanovska stated, “We have clear evidence of our approach’s effectiveness. We are exploring options to develop a spin-out company or startup to advance this research. More studies are needed.”
The discovery of altered brain oxygenation and increased respiration rates provides a fresh perspective on Alzheimer’s. Understanding these physiological changes could revolutionize early detection and treatment strategies.
By focusing on the brain’s vascular health, researchers may unlock new possibilities for slowing or even preventing Alzheimer’s progression. As studies continue, this breakthrough could pave the way for life-changing interventions.
