World Alzheimer’s Day 2020: Misfolded proteins in the gut may be the culprit

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurological disorder that causes memory loss and cognitive decline. It is the most common type of dementia, accounting for an estimated 60 to 80 percent of cases. But do you know what causes this brain disease? Today is World Alzheimer’s Day, which is observed on 21st September every year to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s and Dementia. So, here we are with all that you need to know about this disease.

Causes of Alzheimer’s disease: Here’s what the latest research say

Abnormal build-up of proteins in and around brain cells is believed to be the cause of Alzheimer’s disease. This may cause a decrease in chemical messengers (called neurotransmitters) that are involved in sending messages, or signals, between brain cells. Research has also linked the build-up of misfolded proteins in the gut to the development of Alzheimer’s-like symptoms.

A recent study published in the Journal of Physiology suggested a new treatment approach for Alzheimer’s disease by targeting the gut before symptoms of cognitive deficits appear in patients.

Researchers from the Chinese University of Hong Kong injected Beta-amyloid, the misfolded protein known to be involved in Alzheimer’s disease, into the guts of mice. The proteins later moved to the “gut-brain” (the nervous system in the gut), and also to the brain. One year later, the misfolded proteins were found in parts of the brain involved in the cognitive deficits of Alzheimer’s disease including the hippocampus, the part of the brain that affects the memory. The animals also experienced cognitive impairment.

Although it’s not known exactly what causes this process to begin, they said that it may start many years before the manifestations of the classical hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease including memory loss.

If this is the case, the Alzheimer’s disease may be prevented by targeting these misfolded proteins in the gut, they noted.

Who are at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease?

Several factors are known to increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. These include age, family history, down’s syndrome, head injuries, cardiovascular disease, etc.

Age

Increasing age is the greatest known risk factor, and most Alzheimer’s cases are reported in people aged 65 and older. It is said that the odds of developing Alzheimer’s disease doubles every 5 years after you reach 65. But Alzheimer’s is not an old age disease. It can affect people from around the age of 40. In fact, around 1 in 20 people with the condition are under 65. This is called early- or young-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

Family history

What genes you inherit from your parents can also determine your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, although the risk is small. If you have a parent, brother or sister with Alzheimer’s, then you’re more likely to develop the disease. The risk is higher if there are more family members with the illness.

Down’s syndrome

The genetic fault that causes Down’s syndrome can also cause build up of amyloid plaques in the brain over time, which can lead to Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, people with Down’s syndrome are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Head injuries

A severe head injury may also increase risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, but research is limited in this area.

Cardiovascular disease

Several lifestyle factors and conditions associated with cardiovascular disease are also linked to increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. These include smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

World Alzheimer’s Day 2020: Misfolded proteins in the gut may be the culprit

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World Alzheimer’s Day 2020: Misfolded proteins in the gut may be the culprit

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