A disconnect between blood flow and neuron activity in the brain could be a crucial factor in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers say this mismatch might not only explain neurodegeneration but also pave the way for a simple diagnostic tool and new treatment options.
A Surprising Discovery in Alzheimer’s Research
A team of international researchers, led by Professor Aneta Stefanovska from Lancaster University, has made a striking observation about how blood supply and neural activity interact in the brain. Their findings suggest that a breakdown in this coordination could be a major contributor to Alzheimer’s disease.
“This is an interesting discovery—in my opinion, a revolutionary one—that may open a whole new world in the study of Alzheimer’s disease,” Stefanovska said in a statement.
The research indicates that inflammation, potentially in the brain, could be a hidden factor driving this disruption. If detected early, scientists believe interventions could help slow or even prevent severe stages of Alzheimer’s.
How the Brain and Blood Supply Are Supposed to Work
The human brain is an energy-intensive organ, consuming around 20% of the body’s total energy despite making up only about 2% of body weight. That energy supply depends on the “neurovascular unit,” a system that ensures neurons get the oxygen and nutrients they need through proper blood flow.
Dr. Bernard Meglič, a neurologist from the University of Ljubljana and the study’s clinical coordinator, emphasized the importance of this system. “The vascular system and the brain work together to ensure that the brain receives sufficient energy,” he explained.
Alzheimer’s, the researchers hypothesize, could be the result of an energy imbalance—where neurons aren’t getting the right amount of nourishment due to problems in the blood supply.
Testing the Theory: What the Researchers Found
To explore this theory, the scientists conducted a study involving 39 participants—19 diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and 20 in a control group. They used various noninvasive techniques, including:
- Electrical and optical probes to measure brain activity and oxygen levels.
- Electrocardiograms (ECG) to monitor heart function.
- Respiratory belts to track breathing patterns.
By analyzing these physiological rhythms, the researchers could assess whether blood flow and neural activity were in sync.
Their results were striking: in Alzheimer’s patients, the coordination between neurons and blood vessels was significantly weaker than in the control group. This suggested that the neurovascular unit was not functioning properly.
An Unexpected Clue: Breathing Rates and Alzheimer’s
One of the most surprising findings was a difference in resting respiratory rates. The median breathing rate for the control group was about 13 breaths per minute, whereas in the Alzheimer’s group, it was around 17 breaths per minute.
This seemingly small difference could have significant implications. Faster breathing might contribute to lower oxygen delivery, potentially worsening the buildup of amyloid beta, the toxic protein associated with Alzheimer’s.
A breakdown in oxygen regulation could mean the brain isn’t clearing harmful substances as efficiently as it should, accelerating disease progression.
What This Means for Diagnosis and Treatment
The implications of these findings are twofold. First, the discovery offers a potential new biomarker for Alzheimer’s—one that’s simple, noninvasive, and inexpensive to measure. Instead of relying on complex brain scans or spinal taps, doctors could assess the synchronization of blood flow and neuron activity using external sensors.
Second, if the neurovascular unit plays a key role in Alzheimer’s progression, it might offer a new target for treatment. Therapies aimed at improving blood flow regulation and neuron communication could help slow cognitive decline.
Professor Stefanovska and her team are optimistic about the practical applications of their work. “We show clear results of our approach and how Alzheimer’s can be detected simply, noninvasively, and inexpensively,” she said.
The next step? The team is exploring the possibility of launching a startup to develop their findings into a widely accessible diagnostic tool.