We can detect [vascular problems] perhaps at least ten years, if not more, prior to cognitive decline. We can detect those vascular problems so there is a window where we can intervene. – Dr. Axel Montagne
Dr. Axel Montagne, a leading researcher at the UK Dementia Research Institute, shares his findings on how the blood-brain barrier’s dysfunction can lead to dementia and age-related cognitive decline.
His team is working to develop precise treatments that target brain vasculature to protect brain function.
Table of Contents
- Exercise for Brain Health
- A New Perspective on Alzheimer’s Disease
- Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction: An Early Sign of Dementia
- Aging Affects Certain Brain Regions More
- Identifying Independent Pathways
- The Importance of Early Detection and Intervention
- Apolipoprotein E4: A Significant Genetic Risk Factor
- Pericytes’ Role in Maintaining Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity
- Investigating Potential Therapies
- Inflammaging: The Link Between Aging and Inflammation
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids’ Role in Regulating Blood-Brain Barrier Function
- Dementia: A Multifactorial Disease
Exercise for Brain Health
Regular physical activity is crucial in maintaining healthy small blood vessels in the brain.
These vessels make up 90% of brain vasculature.
A sedentary lifestyle can lead to these vessels’ constriction and collapse, causing neuron loss due to insufficient oxygen and nutrients, thereby accelerating cognitive decline.
A New Perspective on Alzheimer’s Disease
The view of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease as vascular diseases is gaining traction as evidence mounts about early vascular dysfunction preceding cognitive deterioration in patients with these conditions.
