Early and reliable Alzheimer’s detection can improve care and enhance understanding of the disease. New research suggests brain activity and breathing patterns could be key indicators.
Scientists from the UK and Slovenia studied the connection between brain oxygenation and neurodegeneration. They compared brain oxygen levels, heart rate, brain waves, and breathing patterns in Alzheimer’s patients and healthy individuals.
Their findings revealed clear differences in neuron activity linked to blood vessels. In Alzheimer’s patients, the synchronization between brain function and blood oxygen levels appeared disrupted.
FASTER BREATHING RATES IN ALZHEIMER’S PATIENTS
An unexpected discovery was that Alzheimer’s patients had a higher breathing rate. On average, they took 17 breaths per minute, compared to 13 in the control group.
This difference may be due to changes in blood vessel function in the brain. Impaired oxygen delivery could explain the increased breathing rate, possibly linked to underlying inflammation.
A POTENTIAL BREAKTHROUGH IN ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH
“This is a revolutionary discovery that could transform Alzheimer’s research,” says biophysicist Aneta Stefanovska from Lancaster University. She believes early detection through breathing patterns might help prevent severe cases.
The findings support the theory that Alzheimer’s stems from a failing vascular system. When blood flow weakens, the brain struggles to clear toxins, accelerating cognitive decline.
A NONINVASIVE AND COST-EFFECTIVE DIAGNOSTIC TOOL
The study used electrical and optical scalp sensors to track brain and breathing patterns. Unlike traditional methods, this approach is noninvasive, inexpensive, and does not require blood or tissue samples.
Although breathing patterns alone can’t diagnose Alzheimer’s, they could be a useful marker. Future research could confirm if respiratory changes signal early disease stages.
ENERGY DEMANDS OF THE BRAIN
The brain consumes about 20% of the body’s total energy but makes up just 2% of body weight. A breakdown in the brain’s vascular system could disrupt this energy balance, contributing to Alzheimer’s.
THE ROAD AHEAD: FUTURE RESEARCH AND POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS
Neurologist Bernard Meglič from the University of Ljubljana emphasizes the importance of further research. The team is considering launching a startup to develop this diagnostic method into a practical tool.
“We now have a simple, noninvasive, and cost-effective way to detect Alzheimer’s,” Stefanovska says. “More research will refine our approach and help bring this breakthrough to clinical practice.”
Early detection of Alzheimer’s could transform treatment and patient outcomes. This study highlights how breathing patterns and brain function could offer new insights into diagnosing the disease sooner.
