Scientists discover how obesity may fuel Alzheimer’s disease
Researchers have uncovered a possible biological pathway connecting obesity to Alzheimer’s disease. Obesity appears to raise levels of certain fat molecules that can travel to the brain, disrupt its immune defenses, and promote harmful amyloid buildup. Correcting this fat imbalance improved memory and brain function in Alzheimer’s models.
New research from Houston Methodist reveals a potential link between obesity and the progression of Alzheimer's disease. The study, led by Dr. Stephen Wong and Dr. Li Yang, discovered that metabolic changes associated with obesity, specifically an increase in certain fat molecules called phosphatidylethanolamines (PEs), may negatively impact the brain.
These PEs are transported to the brain via tiny particles, interfering with brain cell communication, weakening immune protection, and promoting amyloid protein accumulation. Amyloid buildup is a key biological marker of Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Wong stated that obesity can alter how signals travel to the brain, and although further research is needed, the findings suggest that targeting these fat molecules or their transport pathway could potentially reduce Alzheimer's-related damage in individuals with metabolic health concerns.
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- Scientists discover how obesity may fuel Alzheimer’s disease sciencedaily.com
