Neurodegeneration – News and Features

Karolinska Institutet researchers found long-term use of cardiovascular drugs like antihypertensives and cholesterol-lowering medications reduces dementia risk by up to 25%. Combinations of these drugs had stronger effects.

A review explores why humans, unlike primates, are highly vulnerable to Alzheimer’s disease. Evolutionary traits like longer lifespans and larger brains may increase susceptibility. The findings shift focus from beta-amyloid to tau tangles.

New research describes how sphingolipids can also contribute to arterial plaques and atherosclerosis, revealing a new side to cardiovascular disease.

Fampridine is currently used to improve walking ability in multiple sclerosis. A new study shows that it could also help individuals with reduced working memory, as seen in mental health conditions like schizophrenia or depression.

MIT researchers reveal how exercise stimulates neuron growth via biochemical and mechanical effects of muscle activity. Myokines and mechanical stretching enhance nerve growth and maturity.

A new technology efficiently isolates a subset of bacteria that are associated with disease from the gut microbiome, helping to uncover disease mechanisms and new treatments.

Using cerebrospinal fluid, researchers have identified proteins and genes linked to Alzheimer's progression that could form drug targets.

This article explores the discovery that COVID-19 can induce widespread clotting in the blood of patients.

Researchers at Stanford found that sialic acid-rich antibodies can lessen flu severity by binding to anti-inflammatory receptors in the lungs. The findings reveal a novel pathway to reduce inflammation without reducing viral replication.

The genetic mutation that causes Huntington's disease may also enhance early brain development and promote intelligence.