Researchers investigate personal causes of Alzheimer's disease

(CONNECT) Researchers from the Institute of Regenerative Medicine at the University of Zurich (UZH) have investigated the risks of developing Alzheimer's dementia in a long-term study. They found that the probability of developing the disease is both gender-dependent and correlated with personal factors, according to a statement from UZH.

In the study, test subjects between the ages of 50 and 89 were observed over a period of time. It turned out that disease-related factors affected women and men differently. In addition to organic causes such as the deposition of harmful proteins such as beta-amyloid in the cerebral vessels, many socio-economic and other external factors have an impact on the onset and progression of the disease. For example, plenty of exercise, lively social contacts, a varied, healthy diet, mentally stimulating hobbies, education and a high socio-economic status can reduce the risk of dementia. "Ultimately, a combination of many individual factors always determines whether you develop Alzheimer's or not," Anton Gietl, geriatric psychiatrist at UZH, is quoted as saying in the press release.

For early detection of the disease, determining the immune cells responsible can explain the extent to which amyloid deposits are present in the brain. The study also identified two blood markers that indicate a higher risk of cognitive changes. According to research leader Valerie Treyer, early detection accompanied by such examinations could enable effective prevention of the disease. "However, if the disease is already present," says Treyer, "it can usually only be delayed with existing therapies, but not reversed." ce/ww