Researchers talked about the mechanism of brain protection against Alzheimer's disease

Scientists from Yale University have revealed how the brain protects itself from the toxic effects of calcium, which may hold the key to preventing Alzheimer's disease. This was reported on December 3 in the journal Medical Xpress.

Researchers at Yale University have discovered that the brain uses its own defense mechanism to combat toxic calcium levels that contribute to the loss of neurons in Alzheimer's disease. The protein Glyoxalase 1 (GLO1) increases activity, helping neurons neutralize toxic metabolic products caused by excess calcium.

The scientists used an animal model with a genetically modified RyR2 channel responsible for the release of calcium from cellular reservoirs. The constant "openness" of the channel led to a chronic release of calcium. In response, the animals showed increased levels of GLO1 in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, which protected their cognitive functions.

However, with age, GLO1 activity decreased, and the neurons became more vulnerable to damage. Older animals with reduced protein levels performed worse in memory tests, which confirms the importance of this mechanism for maintaining cognitive functions.

Sound mind: Russian scientists have learned how to predict and prevent strokes

What new techniques will save the lives and health of many people

"We have discovered how the brain itself copes with calcium leakage and uses a resistance factor that weakens with age. If we can maintain this mechanism, the brain will be protected in a natural way that it has developed itself," said Amy Arnsten, professor of neuroscience at Yale University.

The authors of the study emphasized that the discovery of GLO1 as a protective mechanism opens up new opportunities for the development of preventive therapies against Alzheimer's disease aimed at the early stages of neurodegeneration, before the appearance of obvious symptoms.

On November 9, Medical Xpress magazine reported on the ability of physical activity to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. According to the publication, this effect was observed when passing 3 thousand steps, and the best indicator was at 5-7.5 thousand steps. It was also clarified that people who walked more had improved cardiovascular health.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.