Four new studies reported at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) 2018 in Chicago investigated how the digestive system, including gut and liver functions, may be related to changes in the brain, and to brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
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At the same time, an increasing body of evidence suggests that altered metabolism of certain lipids may be an important factor in the development of Alzheimer’s. Several of the genes associated with Alzheimer’s — including the strongest Alzheimer’s risk gene, APOE-e4 — are involved in lipid transport or metabolism. In addition, lipids make up most of the brain’s mass, so changes in the production or transport of lipids may have a significant effect on brain structure and function. Key functions of lipids include storing energy and acting as structural components of cell membranes.
“While still in its infancy, gut microbiome research is very exciting since it may give us a new window into why diet and nutrition are so important for brain health,” said Maria Carrillo, PhD, Alzheimer’s Association Chief Science Officer. “For example, this work may tell us more about how and why ‘good fats’ help keep the brain healthy, and help guide brain-healthy dietary choices.”
“In addition, if it turns out these gut bacteria are effective and accurate markers of Alzheimer’s disease cause or progression, or both, they might be useful as a non-invasive screening tool — a simple blood test. They could then be used to help identify high-risk people for clinical trials or track the impact of a therapy,” Carrillo said. “However, we are only at step one. We don’t know yet exactly what the changes we are seeing mean — especially in animal models — whether they are cause or effect.”
