Alzheimer’s disease gradually destroys brain function, so much so that at some point you are unable to perform even everyday activities like going to the bathroom. Scientists continue to conduct studies to learn more about this condition. In this regard, a group of Australian researchers has made a new discovery, in which intestinal disorders seem to have an intimate relationship with this disease.
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
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It is a brain disorder that damages the ability to think and memory. Over time, any task becomes more complicated to perform. The National Institute of Aging mentions that approximately 6 million people in the United States may have dementia as a result of Alzheimer’s disease. This disease ranks seventh among the leading causes of death in this country.
Unfortunately there is no cure and it is believed that by 2030 it will have affected approximately 82 million people.
What is the relationship between intestinal disorders and Alzheimer’s disease?
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Edith Cowan University (ECU), led by Dr. Emmanuel Adewuyi, has conducted research by collecting genetic data from patients with bowel disorders and Alzheimer’s disease. The research results have been published in Communications Biology.
Scientists have discovered the common denominator between these two health problems: a gene. At present, it cannot be said that specific intestinal disorders are the ones that cause Alzheimer’s disease. Simon Laws, Professor and Director of the Center for Precision Health comments: “These findings provide further evidence to support the concept of the ‘gut-brain’ axis, a bi-directional link between the cognitive and emotional centers of the brain and gut function. .”
In addition to genes research indicates that cholesterol is also a factor that influences both intestinal disorders and Alzheimer’s disease. Adewuyi explains, “Examination of genetic and biological characteristics common to AD (Alzheimer’s disease) and other intestinal disorders suggests important roles for lipid metabolism, the immune system and cholesterol-lowering drugs. “There is evidence that high cholesterol can be transferred to the central nervous system, leading to abnormal cholesterol metabolism in the brain.”
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The Role of Statins in Gut Disorders
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Statins are drugs used to control or lower blood cholesterol. Almost all of the cholesterol that travels through the blood is produced by the liver. Statins are responsible for eliminating what is already circulating in the blood, says the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Dr. Adewuyi points out that this drug can reduce inflammation, modulate immunity and protect the gut.. Although there is still a lot to be studied to know the benefits of this drug in each individual patient.
Undoubtedly, in future research conducted, it would be of vital importance to take this new discovery on the relationship between intestinal disorders and Alzheimer’s disease as a benchmark.