Research roundup: Detecting Alzheimer’s and the gut-brain connection, how sleep impacts Parkinson’s
NR Times explores the latest research developments impacting on neuro-rehab.
Researchers develop a new approach to detecting Alzheimer’s disease
New research has identified a link between disrupted brain oxygenation dynamics and neuronal function in Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting that neurodegeneration may stem from insufficient nourishment of the brain via the vascular system.
For the new study, a team of scientists measured brain activity, blood oxygenation, heart rate, and respiration using non-invasive techniques to assess the efficiency of the neurovascular unit (NVU), which coordinates the brain’s energy supply.
The team found that individuals with Alzheimer’s had a significantly higher resting respiratory rate than those without the disease, a discovery that could indicate inflammation and potentially open new avenues for early detection and intervention.
The researchers emphasise that their method of detecting Alzheimer’s is simple, non-invasive, and cost-effective, presenting a significant step forward in diagnosis. They are now exploring opportunities to commercialise the approach through a spin-out or start-up company, though further research is needed to refine and validate their findings.
X-ray micro- and nano- tomography provides clues on gut-brain connection in Alzhiemer’s
Researchers have discovered how X-ray micro- and nano- tomography can provide clues on the processes that link the gut neurons with those in the brain and may trigger Alzheimer’s.
Dysfunction in the gut-brain axis has been linked to psychiatric and neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s. The gut microbiota, which refers to the microorganisms in the intestinal tract, plays a key role in human health and influences brain function, cognition and behaviour.
The researchers found that, using nano- and micro X-ray phase-contrast tomography (XPCT), they were able to image soft biological tissues with excellent sensitivity in 3D, with minimal sample preparation and without contrast agents.
The data showed the changes in cell abundance and organisation in the tissues, as well as structural alteration in different tissues of mice affected with Alzheimer’s. Specifically, it showed relevant alterations in the villi and crypts of the gut, cellular transformations in Paneth and goblet cells, along with the detection of telocytes, neurons, erythrocytes, and mucus secretion by goblet cells within the gut cavity. All these elements, when working correctly, maintain gut health, support digestion, and protect the intestinal lining from damage.
The team say the technique represents a breakthrough for the thorough analysis of the gut, and it could be pivotal in early detection and prognosis of the disease.
Ethics checklist for portable MRI brain researchers created
The first-ever checklist tool that offers practical operational guidance for pMRI researchers working in community settings.
The “Portable MRI Research ELSI Checklist”, walks pMRI researchers through the entire research lifecycle: creating research protocols, preparing for scanning, conducting scanning, and responding to participant needs after scanning. The tool focuses on ELSI issues and unique challenges such as participant safety, incidental findings, informed consent and data privacy.
How poor sleep impacts Parkinson’s patients
An overwhelming 84 per cent of patients with Parkinson’s disease report struggling with sleep issues, a new study has revealed.
Equally, the study found these people were strongly linked to increased symptoms of depression, greater difficulty with independent living and an overall decline in quality of life.
Furthermore, sleep disturbances were found to worsen the severity of “OFF periods” – the times when the effects of Parkinson’s medication diminish, leaving patients vulnerable to a return of debilitating symptoms.
