Investigating the relation between the digestive system and Alzheimer's disease in detail.
Alzheimer's: A Link Between Gut Dysbiosis and Brain Disease
Alzheimer's disease, characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and neural damage, has traditionally been understood through its apparent markers in the brain, such as beta-amyloid and tau. However, recent research sheds light on a novel connection between gut health and Alzheimer's.
Scientists, led by the Institute of Nanotechnology in Italy, have been exploring the intricate correspondence between the gut and the brain. The findings suggest that dysfunction in the gut-brain axis, caused by an imbalance in microbial diversity (dysbiosis), could trigger Alzheimer's.
Dysbiosis allows harmful bacteria to thrive, sparking inflammation that can lead to the deterioration of the gut-brain barriers. While the precise link between gut dysbiosis and Alzheimer's is still under investigation, experts speculate that harmful bacteria may escape from the gut (a condition known as "leaky gut") and affect the brain.
Researchers utilized nano- and micro X-ray phase-contrast tomography (XPCT) to study structural and morphological changes in the gut of mice diagnosed with Alzheimer's. The data revealed substantial alterations in cell abundance, tissue structure, and organization that are crucial for maintaining gut health, supporting digestion, and safeguarding the intestinal lining.
The team plans to use XPCT to delve deeper into the interaction between the gut and the central nervous system. By elucidating these processes, they hope to identify novel therapeutic targets that can help develop innovative treatments for Alzheimer's.
Dysbiosis has previously been linked to various health issues, including Celiac disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and metabolic disorders. To promote gut health, it is recommended to follow a gut-friendly diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, which incorporates dementia-risk-lowering olive oil. Avoid processed foods, refined sugar, and opt for prebiotics and probiotics through diet or supplementation. Regular exercise is also beneficial for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
[Source: The gut-brain connection in Alzheimer's unveiled with X-rays - EurekAlert!, Investigating gut alterations in Alzheimer's disease: In-depth analysis with micro- and nano-3D X-ray phase contrast tomography - Science Advances]
- The link between gut dysbiosis and Alzheimer's disease may involve harmful bacteria triggering inflammation, leading to the deterioration of the gut-brain barriers.
- To maintain gut health, one can follow a gut-friendly diet like the Mediterranean diet, along with regular exercise, and consider prebiotics and probiotics through diet or supplements.
- Scientists believe that understanding the interaction between gut health and Alzheimer's disease, through research using technologies like XPCT, could lead to the discovery of novel therapeutic targets for developing innovative treatments for Alzheimer's.
