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Can abnormal levels of certain fat molecules in blood promote brain dysfunction and the risk of dementia?
Manja Koch, Ph.D.
Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health
Boston, MA - United States
Background
Brain cell damage may be a key aspect of Alzheimer’s. Scientists are looking for factors that damage brain cell structure and contribute to the onset of dementia. All brain cells contain a large group of lipids (fats) called “sphingolipids”, which help protect the structure and health of cells. These lipids may also play a role in the growth and death of the brain cell. In recent years, studies have found that when certain sphingolipids become too abundant in the blood, the risk for cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s may increase. Other types of sphingolipids, however, may reduce a person’s risk for brain disease.
Research Plan
Dr. Manja Koch and colleagues will conduct a larger study of sphingolipids to determine their usefulness as biological markers (or biomarkers) for assessing various brain disorders. Their effort will include data from over 3000 participants in the Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS), a large study that includes evaluation of older adults and associated health conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, dementia etc. Using CHS data, the researchers will test the association of 15 blood-based sphingolipids in (1) the risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias, (2) the loss of brain volume and other brain structure changes using brain scans, and (3) the rate of cognitive decline using cognitive tests.
Impact
Dr. Koch’s study may help reveal important mechanisms underlying nerve cell damage and how it can lead to brain disorder. It may also inform specific sphingolipids as important biomarkers for detecting brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s at an early stage, and as well as possible targets for therapies that delay cognitive decline. Families facing Alzheimer’s now and in the future will benefit greatly from early detection, allowing for important care and planning. Furthermore, when we have new therapies, we will be in a better position to know who needs treatment at the earliest time point.
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