Monthly Archives: March 2026

Blood Test May Help Predict Longevity, According to New Study

As people grow older, it can be difficult to tell who will continue to enjoy healthy years and who may face a serious health decline. A new study suggests that some clues may already be present in the bloodstream. Scientists say certain molecules found in blood could help indicate survival chances in older adults.

Researchers from Duke Health, working with the University of Minnesota, discovered that tiny RNA molecules called piRNAs may help predict whether older adults are likely to live at least two more years. The findings were published on February 25 in the journal Aging Cell. The results suggest that a simple blood test might one day help doctors identify health risks earlier.

The study found that just a small group of these molecules could provide strong predictions. According to lead researcher Virginia Byers Kraus, the combination of a few piRNAs predicted two-year survival more accurately than age, lifestyle habits, or other health measurements examined in the study. She said the team was surprised that such strong signals came from a basic blood test.

Scientists analysed blood samples from adults aged 71 and older. They noticed that people who had lower levels of certain piRNAs tended to live longer. Previous research has shown that these molecules help control important processes in the body, including development, regeneration, and the immune system.

To conduct the research, the team used artificial intelligence and machine learning to study 187 clinical factors and more than 800 small RNA molecules. They analysed over 1,200 blood samples from a large group of participants in North Carolina. Their statistical models showed that a group of six piRNAs could predict two-year survival with an accuracy of up to 86 per cent, and the results were confirmed in another group of older adults.

Researchers also compared piRNAs with common health indicators such as age, cholesterol levels, and physical activity. The small RNA molecules performed better at predicting short-term survival than these traditional measures. Scientists now plan to study whether treatments, lifestyle changes, or medications influence piRNA levels, which could help develop new ways to support healthier ageing.

More information: Virginia Byers Kraus et al, Select Small Non-Coding RNAs Are Determinants of Survival in Older Adults, Aging Cell. DOI: 10.1111/acel.70403

Journal information: Aging Cell Provided by Duke University Medical Center

Study Suggests Certain Health Conditions May Indicate Future Alzheimer’s Risk

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A new study led by researchers at Vanderbilt Health has identified a range of medical conditions that frequently appear years before a person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The research, published in the journal Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy, suggests that recognising these conditions earlier in life could help scientists and clinicians develop strategies to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s or delay its onset. By identifying patterns in large health datasets, the study provides new insight into the long development process of the disease and highlights potential opportunities for earlier intervention.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that develops slowly over decades, gradually affecting memory, thinking and behaviour. Previous research has already linked certain midlife health issues to a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s later in life. Conditions such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels and stroke have been identified as important risk factors. However, researchers say that the full range of medical conditions that might signal increased Alzheimer’s risk has remained relatively limited. The new study aimed to expand that list and identify additional health conditions that may appear long before clinical symptoms become noticeable.

“If we know the full inventory of medical conditions that predict Alzheimer’s disease development 10 or more years later, we can potentially intervene before clinical symptoms of memory or cognitive impairment become apparent,” said Xue Zhong, PhD, research assistant professor of Medicine in the Division of Genetic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology. Zhong explained that delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s disease by even five years could significantly reduce the number of people affected. Some projections suggest that such a delay could cut the overall incidence of the disease by about half. Zhong served as co-corresponding author of the study alongside Nancy Cox, PhD, professor of Medicine.

To systematically identify medical conditions associated with Alzheimer’s development, the research team analysed de-identified electronic health records from two large and independent databases. The first was the MarketScan claims database, which contains health information from more than 150 million individuals across the United States. The second was the electronic health record system at Vanderbilt Health, which includes approximately three million patients. The MarketScan dataset served as the discovery cohort, allowing researchers to identify potential associations, while the Vanderbilt dataset was used to validate the findings independently.

Within the MarketScan database, researchers identified 43,508 individuals who had received an Alzheimer’s diagnosis and compared them with 419,455 individuals of similar age and sex who had not developed the disease. In the Vanderbilt Health dataset, the team analysed 1,320 Alzheimer’s cases and 12,720 matched control participants. By examining medical records covering the decade before an Alzheimer’s diagnosis and comparing patterns between the two groups, researchers were able to identify health conditions that appeared more frequently among people who later developed Alzheimer’s.

The analysis revealed more than seventy medical conditions that consistently appeared in both databases before an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Many of these fell into several broad categories. Mental health conditions were common, including depression and severe neuropsychiatric symptoms such as paranoia, psychosis and suicidal thoughts. Neurological and sleep-related issues also appeared frequently, including insomnia, hypersomnia and sleep apnoea. Cardiovascular and circulatory conditions, such as essential hypertension, cerebral atherosclerosis and cerebral ischaemia, were also identified. In addition, endocrine and metabolic conditions — particularly type 2 diabetes — were among the potential indicators.

To explore possible genetic links, researchers analysed data from two large DNA biobanks: Vanderbilt Health’s BioVU and the UK Biobank. They identified nineteen conditions that were associated either with individual genetic risk variants or with a broader polygenic risk score linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Although the associations found in electronic health records do not prove that these conditions directly cause Alzheimer’s, the researchers say the findings provide a valuable roadmap for earlier risk recognition and prevention-focused research. The study also confirmed well-known risk factors such as hypertension and high cholesterol, suggesting that managing these conditions in midlife through healthier lifestyles or medication could help reduce Alzheimer’s risk. Interestingly, the researchers also observed an inverse relationship between cancer and Alzheimer’s disease — a pattern previously reported in epidemiological studies — and they are now investigating the biological mechanisms behind this phenomenon in hopes of uncovering new therapeutic possibilities.

More information: Xue Zhong et al, Longitudinal analysis of electronic health records reveals medical conditions associated with subsequent Alzheimer’s disease development, Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy. DOI: 10.1186/s13195-025-01914-4

Journal information: Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy Provided by Vanderbilt University Medical Center

New Study Reveals Way to Watch and Reverse Key Chemical Process Linked to Alzheimer’s

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A recent study conducted at Oregon State University has provided new insight into a chemical process associated with Alzheimer’s disease, offering a potential pathway for improving future drug development. A scientist from the university, working alongside a team of undergraduate researchers, examined how molecular interactions linked to the disease occur in real time. By observing these reactions as they happened in a laboratory environment, the researchers were able to gain a clearer understanding of how certain chemical processes contribute to the progression of the condition. Their work aims to deepen scientific knowledge about the molecular behaviour behind Alzheimer’s while helping guide the design of more effective treatments in the future.

The team employed a specialised molecule-measuring technique that allowed them to closely observe how particular metal ions influence proteins connected with Alzheimer’s. These metals can trigger a process in which proteins begin to clump together, forming structures that interfere with the brain’s communication pathways. In the laboratory experiments, the scientists monitored how these metals interacted with amyloid-beta proteins, the substances widely associated with the development of Alzheimer’s-related damage in the brain. Being able to watch the process unfold moment by moment allowed the researchers to capture details that had previously remained difficult to observe in conventional experiments.

The study was led by Marilyn Rampersad Mackiewicz, an associate professor of chemistry in the university’s College of Science. Her research group focused on analysing both the formation of protein clusters and the ways certain molecules might interfere with that process. During their experiments, the team observed how compounds known as chelators could interrupt or even reverse the clumping of proteins. The findings, published in the scientific journal ACS Omega, suggest that observing these reactions in real time could provide researchers with new ways to evaluate potential therapeutic approaches.

Alzheimer’s disease remains the most common form of dementia, a chronic neurological condition characterised by declining cognitive ability and memory loss. The disease affects millions of people worldwide, particularly older adults, and has a significant emotional and social impact on families and caregivers. In individuals with Alzheimer’s, clusters of amyloid-beta proteins accumulate in the brain and disrupt communication between nerve cells. Although certain metals are essential for normal brain function, an imbalance in their concentration can contribute to these harmful protein aggregations, worsening the disruption of neural pathways.

In their experiments, the researchers examined how chelators—molecules that bind tightly to metal ions—interacted with these metals during the aggregation process. Using a method called fluorescence anisotropy, the team found that one chelator successfully captured metal ions but did so indiscriminately, binding to several types rather than focusing only on those linked to harmful protein clumping. Another chelator, however, showed a stronger ability to selectively target copper ions, which are believed to play an important role in triggering amyloid-beta aggregation. Observing these differences helped the researchers understand how specific molecular properties can influence the success of potential treatments.

The research also highlighted the value of studying chemical interactions as they occur rather than only examining the outcome of an experiment. By measuring the reactions second by second, the scientists were able to determine not just whether a molecule disrupted protein aggregation, but precisely how and when the disruption occurred. The team emphasised that although therapies based on these discoveries remain years away, the ability to observe and quantify these processes offers an important step forward. Future research will involve testing the findings in more complex biological environments, including cellular models and preclinical studies, in order to refine further strategies for designing treatments that may one day help counteract the damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease.

More information: Alyssa N. Schroeder et al, Selective Reversal of Cu-Amyloid Aggregation Monitored in Real Time by Fluorescence Anisotropy: Ni-Bme-Dach vs EDTA Benchmarks, ACS Omega. DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.5c11345

Journal information: ACS Omega Provided by Oregon State University

Fibre-Rich Diet Tied to Better Heart Health for People Working Night Shifts

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People who work night shifts face a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease, one of the most common forms of heart disease. A new study suggests that diet may help reduce this risk. Researchers found that a higher intake of dietary fibre was associated with better heart health among individuals who work overnight. The findings are based on data from more than 220,000 adults in the United Kingdom and were published in the journal European Journal of Epidemiology.

The human body is naturally designed to follow a daily rhythm in which people are awake during the day and asleep at night. Working overnight disrupts this internal biological clock, known as the circadian rhythm. When this rhythm is repeatedly disturbed, it can place additional strain on the body and has been linked to several long-term health problems, including a greater risk of cardiovascular disease.

Previous studies have already shown that night shift work is associated with a higher likelihood of coronary artery disease. Because many professions require overnight schedules and night work is often unavoidable, researchers wanted to investigate whether certain dietary habits might help offset some of the increased risk faced by these workers.

To explore this question, the research team analysed data from participants in the UK Biobank collected between 2006 and 2010. The participants were divided into three groups: people who worked only daytime hours, those who worked night shifts occasionally, and those who regularly worked night shifts. All participants had completed detailed questionnaires describing their dietary habits, including their intake of dietary fibre.

After approximately 12 years of follow-up, the researchers compared the incidence of coronary artery disease among the different groups. They found that night shift workers who consumed lower amounts of fibre had a higher risk of developing the condition compared with those who consumed more fibre. The pattern was particularly noticeable among individuals who worked night shifts on a regular basis.

According to lead author Diana Nôga, a researcher at Uppsala University, even moderate fibre intake appeared to be linked to benefits. Among regular night shift workers, consuming around 19 grams of fibre per day was associated with a lower risk of coronary artery disease. For those who worked night shifts only occasionally, about 15 grams per day showed a similar relationship. For comparison, current general dietary guidelines recommend that adults aim for roughly 25 grams of fibre each day.

The researchers stress that these findings do not represent new official dietary recommendations. Instead, they highlight a pattern observed in the study population: higher fibre consumption was linked with a lower risk of heart disease among night shift workers. Fibre-rich foods such as whole grains, vegetables, fruit, legumes and lentils may therefore help support heart health. However, dietary changes should complement other healthy habits such as regular physical activity, avoiding smoking, and getting adequate sleep.

More information: Diana Nôga et al, Night shift work, dietary patterns, and coronary heart disease, European Journal of Epidemiology. DOI: 10.1007/s10654-026-01362-w

Journal information: European Journal of Epidemiology Provided by Uppsala University

Yale Study Suggests Growing Older May Bring Improvement Rather Than Decline

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Ageing in later life is frequently portrayed as a gradual and unavoidable decline in both physical strength and mental sharpness. However, new research from scientists at Yale University presents a different perspective. The study suggests that many older adults actually improve over time, and that their attitudes toward ageing can significantly influence how well they age.

Becca R. Levy, a professor of social and behavioural sciences at the Yale School of Public Health, led the research. By analysing more than a decade of data from a large national survey of older Americans, Levy found that nearly half of adults aged 65 and older demonstrated measurable improvements in cognitive abilities, physical function, or both. These changes occurred across a broad population rather than within a small group of exceptional individuals.

The study followed more than 11,000 participants from the long-running Health and Retirement Study. Researchers evaluated cognitive performance using a comprehensive assessment. They measured physical function through walking speed, a metric often described by geriatric specialists as a key indicator of overall health because of its strong relationship with disability, hospitalisation, and mortality. Over as many as twelve years of follow-up, 45 per cent of participants improved in at least one of these areas.

More specifically, about 32 per cent of participants showed improvements in cognitive performance, while 28 per cent improved in physical functioning. Many experienced gains large enough to be considered clinically meaningful. When individuals whose cognitive scores remained stable over the same period were included, more than half of the participants contradicted the widely held belief that cognitive ability must steadily deteriorate in later life.

The researchers also explored why some individuals improved while others did not. One important factor appeared to be people’s existing beliefs about ageing. Participants who held more positive views about getting older were significantly more likely to experience improvements in both cognition and walking speed, even after accounting for influences such as age, education, chronic health conditions, depression, and the length of the study period.

These findings align with Levy’s Stereotype Embodiment Theory, which proposes that cultural stereotypes about ageing can gradually become internalised and influence health outcomes. The study suggests that because beliefs about ageing can change, there may be opportunities for interventions at both personal and societal levels. Encouraging more positive views of ageing could help support programmes focused on prevention, rehabilitation, and other initiatives that allow older adults to maintain and even improve their abilities over time.

More information: Becca R. Levy et al, Aging Redefined: Cognitive and Physical Improvement with Positive Age Beliefs, Geriatrics. DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics11020028

Journal information: Geriatrics Provided by Yale University

Changes in brain blood flow and oxygen supply may provide early warning signs of Alzheimer’s

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Subtle alterations in the way blood circulates through the brain and how brain tissue uses oxygen may be closely associated with the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, according to new research from the Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute (Stevens INI) at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California. The findings suggest that changes in the brain’s vascular system may be detectable before clear symptoms of cognitive decline appear. Researchers believe that examining these early physiological signals could help scientists better understand the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease and potentially identify individuals who are at greater risk long before memory problems become noticeable.

The study, published in Alzheimer’s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, examined whether noninvasive measures of brain blood flow and oxygenation were linked to biological features commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers analysed older adults both with and without cognitive impairment and compared vascular measurements with established brain markers of the disease. They discovered that these measures were related to key changes such as the accumulation of amyloid proteins and reductions in the size of the hippocampus, a region of the brain that plays a central role in memory. These findings support the idea that vascular health may influence the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s development.

Scientists have traditionally focused on proteins such as amyloid and tau as the primary drivers of Alzheimer’s disease. Still, growing evidence suggests that the brain’s blood supply and oxygen delivery also play an important role. The lead author of the study explained that the results indicate a strong relationship between healthy vascular function and better indicators of cognitive health. When blood vessels in the brain behaved in ways more typical of healthy ageing, researchers also observed brain features that were associated with a lower likelihood of cognitive decline. This connection highlights the possibility that maintaining healthy blood flow to the brain could be important for protecting long-term brain function.

To examine these processes, the research team used two noninvasive technologies that can monitor brain physiology while participants rest quietly. One technique, transcranial Doppler ultrasound, measures the speed at which blood travels through the brain’s major arteries. The other method, near-infrared spectroscopy, detects how effectively oxygen reaches brain tissue near the surface of the cortex. By combining data from these methods with advanced mathematical modelling, researchers created indicators that reflect how effectively the brain regulates blood flow and oxygen delivery in response to natural fluctuations in blood pressure and carbon dioxide levels.

Participants who scored higher on these indicators—meaning their brain blood vessels functioned more similarly to those of cognitively healthy individuals—showed lower levels of amyloid plaques and had larger hippocampal volumes. Both characteristics are widely recognised as signs of a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers also observed that individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or dementia tended to display weaker vascular indicators than cognitively healthy participants. This pattern supports the growing view that reduced cerebrovascular function may be part of the broader continuum of Alzheimer’s disease rather than simply a consequence of later-stage degeneration.

The researchers emphasise that these findings do not prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Instead, the study provides a snapshot showing that vascular health and established Alzheimer’s markers are closely linked. However, the techniques used in the research are less expensive and easier to perform than traditional brain imaging methods such as MRI or PET scans. Because they do not require injections, radiation, or demanding tasks from patients, they may eventually prove useful for large-scale screening or for individuals who cannot tolerate more intensive imaging procedures. Long-term studies are now underway to determine whether changes in these vascular signals can predict future cognitive decline or reveal whether improving vascular health might help slow Alzheimer’s-related brain changes.

More information: Amaryllis A. Tsiknia et al, Cerebrovascular regulation dynamics and Alzheimer’s neuroimaging phenotypes, Alzheimer’s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. DOI: 10.1002/alz.71146

Journal information: Alzheimer’s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association Provided by Keck School of Medicine of USC

Off-Label Antipsychotic Prescriptions Prevalent in Older Adult Population, Study Shows

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A large registry-based investigation conducted in Finland by researchers from the University of Oulu and the University of Eastern Finland has found that a substantial number of older adults are prescribed antipsychotic medications for conditions that fall outside their officially approved medical indications. This practice, commonly known as off-label prescribing, occurs when physicians use a medication to treat symptoms or disorders not specified in the drug’s regulatory approval. While off-label prescribing is legal and sometimes clinically justified, the study highlights how frequently it occurs among older adults and raises questions about the circumstances that lead to such prescribing patterns.

The research team examined comprehensive national registry data covering 209,346 community-dwelling older adults in Finland who did not have Alzheimer’s disease. By analysing this large population dataset, the investigators were able to explore patterns of antipsychotic medication use among older people living at home rather than in institutional care settings. Participants were divided into three comparison groups: individuals who received antipsychotics for conditions that were not officially approved indications, patients who were prescribed these medications for approved indications, and individuals who were not using antipsychotic drugs at all.

The analysis revealed a striking pattern. Approximately 70 per cent of all antipsychotic use in the study population occurred in situations classified as off-label. In addition to being common, off-label prescribing also increased during the study period, suggesting a growing reliance on these medications outside their formally approved uses. Among the drugs involved, risperidone and quetiapine were the most frequently prescribed antipsychotics for off-label purposes.

Doctors sometimes prescribe antipsychotic medications to older patients in an attempt to manage persistent behavioural symptoms, agitation, or sleep disturbances. However, these conditions are generally not included among the medications’ approved indications. Earlier research has raised concerns about this pattern of prescribing, particularly when non-pharmacological approaches are not attempted first. Some experts have argued that relying on these medications without exploring alternative strategies may even constitute a form of elder mistreatment. Structural challenges in elderly care—including limited staffing, insufficient resources, and restricted access to non-drug interventions—may contribute to the increasing use of antipsychotics in these circumstances.

The Finnish registry study also identified important differences in the health profiles of patients receiving antipsychotics off-label. Compared with individuals in the other study groups, off-label users were more likely to have cardiovascular diseases and cerebrovascular disorders. They were also more frequently prescribed opioid medications, which may indicate more complex health conditions or symptom management challenges.

According to Tuomas Majuri, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Oulu involved in the study, this finding was particularly unexpected. Off-label users, he explained, actually showed higher rates of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular conditions than patients who were prescribed antipsychotics for approved indications such as psychotic disorders. Majuri suggested that this pattern may reflect inadequate monitoring of the metabolic and cardiovascular side effects associated with antipsychotic medications when they are used outside their intended indications.

The researchers emphasise that their findings highlight an urgent need to develop better treatment options for symptoms that are currently managed through off-label antipsychotic prescribing. They argue that clearer clinical guidelines are necessary to ensure appropriate monitoring of potential metabolic side effects and to encourage safer prescribing practices. Expanding access to non-pharmacological treatments and strengthening support within elderly care systems may also help reduce reliance on these medications in situations where safer alternatives could be used.

More information: Tuomas Majuri et al, Characteristics and predictors of antipsychotic medication off-label use among community-dwelling older people, Nordic Journal of Psychiatry. DOI: 10.1080/08039488.2026.2631597

Journal information: Nordic Journal of Psychiatry Provided by University of Oulu, Finland

Continuous Cognitive Activity Throughout Life Tied to Reduced Alzheimer’s Risk

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A new study published on February 11, 2026, in Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, reports that taking part in a wide range of intellectually stimulating activities throughout life may be associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease and a slower rate of cognitive decline. Activities such as reading, writing and learning a new language were among those examined in the research. The authors emphasised that the findings demonstrate a relationship rather than proof of cause and effect, meaning the study shows an association between lifelong learning and Alzheimer’s risk rather than confirming that such activities directly prevent the disease.

According to the findings, individuals who reported the highest levels of lifelong learning and cognitive engagement tended to develop Alzheimer’s disease later than those who reported the lowest levels. On average, Alzheimer’s disease appeared about five years later among participants with the most extensive exposure to intellectually stimulating experiences. Mild cognitive impairment, which is often considered an early stage of dementia, also appeared later, with an average delay of roughly seven years among those with the highest levels of lifelong learning.

“Our study examined cognitive enrichment from childhood through later adulthood, focusing on activities and resources that stimulate the mind,” said study author Andrea Zammit, PhD, of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. Zammit explained that the results suggest cognitive health in older age may be strongly influenced by the extent to which people are exposed to intellectually stimulating environments across their lives.

The study followed 1,939 participants who had an average age of 80 and did not have dementia at the beginning of the research. They were monitored for an average of eight years. During this period, researchers collected information about the participants’ learning experiences and mentally stimulating activities across three different stages of life: childhood, midlife and later adulthood.

Early-life enrichment, referring to experiences before the age of 18, included factors such as how often participants were read to, how frequently they read books themselves, and whether resources like newspapers and atlases were available in the home. It also considered whether individuals studied a foreign language for more than five years. Midlife enrichment involved measures such as income level at age 40, the presence of household resources like magazine subscriptions, dictionaries and library cards, and how frequently participants visited places such as museums or libraries. Later-life enrichment, beginning around the average age of 80, focused on the frequency of activities like reading, writing and playing games, as well as financial resources including Social Security, retirement income and other sources.

Using this information, researchers calculated enrichment scores for each participant. Over the course of the study, 551 participants developed Alzheimer’s disease and 719 developed mild cognitive impairment. When researchers compared the participants with the highest enrichment scores, representing the top 10 per cent, with those in the lowest 10 per cent, clear differences emerged. Among those with the highest enrichment levels, 21 per cent developed Alzheimer’s disease, compared with 34 per cent among those with the lowest enrichment levels.

After adjusting for factors such as age, sex and education, the researchers found that higher lifetime enrichment scores were associated with a 38 per cent lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease and a 36 per cent lower risk of mild cognitive impairment. Participants with the highest levels of enrichment developed Alzheimer’s at an average age of 94, compared with age 88 for those with the lowest levels. Mild cognitive impairment appeared at an average age of 85 among those with the highest enrichment, compared with age 78 among those with the lowest.

Researchers also analysed a smaller group of participants who died during the study and had brain autopsies performed. The results showed that those with higher lifetime enrichment maintained stronger memory and thinking abilities and experienced slower cognitive decline before death, even when early biological signs associated with Alzheimer’s disease, such as the accumulation of amyloid and tau proteins, were present. Zammit said the findings suggest that consistently engaging in a variety of mentally stimulating activities across the lifespan may help support cognitive function. However, the researchers noted a limitation of the study: participants reported details about their early and midlife experiences later in life, meaning some memories may not have been completely accurate.

More information: Andrea Zammit et al, Associations of Lifetime Cognitive Enrichment With Incident Alzheimer Disease Dementia, Cognitive Aging, and Cognitive Resilience, Neurology. DOI: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000214677

Journal information: Neurology Provided by American Academy of Neurology

Scientists Discover Energy Metabolism Changes in Parkinson’s Disease

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Weight loss is a common but still poorly understood feature of Parkinson’s disease. Many people living with the condition gradually lose weight as the illness progresses, often at the same time that movement problems and daily functioning worsen. Until recently, scientists were unsure why this happens. Some believed it might be caused by muscle loss, reduced appetite, or poor nutrition. However, new research suggests a different explanation. The study shows that most of the weight loss in Parkinson’s disease comes from a reduction in body fat rather than muscle. At the same time, the body appears to shift the way it produces energy, indicating bigger metabolic changes.

Although Parkinson’s disease is mainly known as a disorder of the brain, researchers increasingly believe it also affects the body’s metabolism. Many patients experience fatigue and declining nutritional status, but medical advice has usually focused on encouraging people to eat more calories. The new findings challenge this approach. They suggest that weight loss may not simply result from eating less food. Instead, the body’s normal systems for producing energy may not be working efficiently. When these systems struggle, the body may change how it fuels itself, leading to gradual fat loss even if calorie intake does not fall dramatically.

The research was led by Professor Hirohisa Watanabe from Fujita Health University in Japan, along with colleagues Dr Atsuhiro Higashi and Dr Yasuaki Mizutani. Their goal was to understand exactly what happens in the body when people with Parkinson’s disease lose weight. To investigate this, the team studied 91 people with Parkinson’s disease and compared them with 47 healthy volunteers. They analysed body composition using a technique called bioelectrical impedance analysis, which can measure fat mass, muscle mass, and other components separately. At the same time, they examined blood samples using advanced metabolic testing to track how the body processes energy.

The results revealed a clear pattern. Compared with healthy participants, people with Parkinson’s disease tended to have lower body weight and a lower body mass index. A loss of body fat mainly explained this difference. Muscle mass, however, was largely preserved, especially in the earlier stages of the disease. The prevalence of muscle loss was similar to what is normally seen in ageing adults. According to Professor Watanabe, this finding changes how doctors should think about weight loss in Parkinson’s disease. Instead of muscle wasting, the condition appears to involve a selective reduction in fat stores.

Further analysis showed that this fat loss may occur because the body’s normal energy systems are not functioning properly. The researchers found lower levels of certain metabolic compounds that are involved in processes such as glycolysis and the Krebs cycle, which normally help cells convert glucose into energy. When these pathways become less efficient, the body cannot rely on its usual carbohydrate-based energy production. As a result, it begins to activate alternative pathways. The study found higher levels of molecules linked to ketone bodies and amino acid breakdown, suggesting the body turns to fat and protein as emergency energy sources.

This metabolic shift was not the same for everyone. Patients who were thinner and those with more advanced disease tended to show higher levels of ketone-related compounds, indicating a stronger reliance on fat breakdown for energy. According to the researchers, this may mean that weight loss is a visible sign of a deeper energy problem occurring inside the body. The findings also suggest that simply increasing calorie intake may not fully solve the issue if the body cannot efficiently use glucose for energy. Understanding these hidden metabolic changes may help doctors develop better nutritional strategies and new treatments aimed at supporting the body’s energy systems in people with Parkinson’s disease.

More information: Atsuhiro Higashi et al, Metabolic profiles associated with fat loss in Parkinson’s disease, Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry. DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2025-336929

Journal information: Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry Provided by Fujita Health University

University of Michigan Study Connects Chronic Lead Exposure With Increased Dementia Risk

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As rates of dementia continue to climb across the United States, new research from the University of Michigan School of Public Health suggests that long-term exposure to lead may play a significant role in the development of cognitive decline. The study indicates that older adults who have accumulated higher levels of lead in their bodies over the course of their lives face a substantially greater likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. While lead exposure has long been recognised as harmful to the brain, the findings highlight how its effects may continue to influence neurological health decades after initial exposure.

According to the researchers, the scale of the potential impact is considerable. Kelly Bakulski, an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health and one of the study’s senior authors, explained that the analysis provides the first empirical evidence suggesting that roughly 18 per cent of new dementia cases in the United States each year may be connected to cumulative lead exposure. With around half a million Americans diagnosed with dementia annually, this estimate suggests that close to 90,000 cases could potentially be linked to the long-term effects of lead stored in the body.

The study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, found striking differences in risk between individuals with varying levels of lifetime exposure. Participants whose bone lead concentrations ranked in the highest quarter faced nearly three times the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared with those in the lowest quarter. They were also more than twice as likely to develop dementia from any cause. These results point to cumulative lead exposure as a major environmental factor that may contribute to neurodegenerative disease, yet one that has historically received less attention in dementia research.

To explore this relationship, the research team analysed data from participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), linking these records with Medicare claims and mortality data spanning up to three decades of follow-up. The investigators used machine learning techniques to estimate the amount of lead stored in bone tissue, which acts as a biological archive of lifetime exposure. Unlike measurements that capture only recent contact with lead, bone lead levels reflect the accumulation of the metal over many years.

One of the most important findings of the study was that bone lead levels showed a strong association with dementia risk, while current blood lead levels did not. Sung Kyun Park, a professor of epidemiology and environmental health sciences and a senior author of the research, noted that this distinction is crucial for understanding the long-term consequences of exposure. Lead circulating in the blood typically reflects exposure from the past few weeks, whereas lead embedded in bones can remain for decades. As a result, bone lead provides a much clearer picture of the lifetime burden that may contribute to chronic diseases such as dementia.

Many of the adults included in the study were born before 1980, when environmental lead exposure was significantly higher due to the widespread use of leaded petrol and lead-based paint. Researchers explain that once lead enters the body, it can become stored in bone tissue and remain there for many years. As people age, some of this stored lead may gradually be released back into the bloodstream and potentially reach organs such as the brain. The researchers emphasise that reducing remaining sources of lead exposure—including ageing paint, old plumbing systems, contaminated soil, and industrial pollution—remains essential for protecting both current and future generations from accumulating levels that may increase the risk of dementia later in life.

More information: Xin Wang et al, Exposure to lead and incidence of Alzheimer’s disease and all-cause dementia in the United States, Alzheimer’s & Dementia. DOI: 10.1002/alz.71075

Journal information: Alzheimer’s & Dementia Provided by University of Michigan School of Public Health

New Evidence Links Binge Drinking in Later Life to Elevated Death Risk

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Binge drinking among older adults is linked to a markedly higher risk of death, according to new research published in Alcohol. While heavy episodic drinking is often portrayed as a problem largely confined to younger people, the study suggests that the behaviour remains both common and potentially dangerous well into later life. By examining long-term health outcomes among older Canadians, the researchers found that frequent binge drinking was associated with significantly greater mortality risk compared with those who avoided the behaviour altogether. The findings highlight a growing public health concern as populations age and alcohol use patterns among older adults receive increasing scrutiny from researchers and healthcare professionals.

The research team analysed information from a large national dataset covering more than 129,000 Canadian adults aged 50 and above. The data were drawn from the Canadian Community Health Survey conducted between 2005 and 2014 and were linked with records from the Canadian Vital Statistics Death Database. Participants were followed for as long as 12 years, allowing the researchers to examine how drinking habits related to mortality over time. Their analysis revealed a clear graded relationship between how often people engaged in binge drinking and their likelihood of dying during the study period, even when accounting for a wide range of personal and socioeconomic characteristics.

The prevalence of binge drinking among older adults was notable. Among participants who reported drinking alcohol at least once a month, around 40 per cent said they had engaged in binge drinking at least once during the previous year. A smaller but still significant group, roughly 8 per cent, reported binge drinking every week or more frequently. In the study, binge drinking referred to consuming a large quantity of alcohol on a single occasion, a pattern that can place considerable stress on the body. These findings suggest that heavy episodic drinking remains a widespread behaviour among older drinkers, despite the perception that such habits tend to decline with age.

When researchers adjusted their statistical models to account for demographic factors such as age, sex, education and income, striking differences in mortality risk emerged. Individuals who reported never engaging in binge drinking experienced a 34 per cent lower risk of death compared with those who reported binge drinking weekly or more. Even after incorporating additional variables such as self-reported health, the presence of chronic illness, smoking habits, levels of physical activity and mental health conditions, the association persisted. Under these more stringent adjustments, participants who never binge drank still had a 19 per cent lower risk of mortality than frequent binge drinkers.

The researchers also emphasised that alcohol studies can sometimes produce misleading patterns if underlying health differences between groups are not carefully considered. In initial analyses, non-binge drinkers appeared to have higher mortality rates than some drinkers. This counterintuitive pattern is commonly attributed to what researchers call the “sick quitter” effect. Individuals who experience health problems may reduce or stop drinking entirely, meaning that groups of non-drinkers or moderate drinkers can contain people with pre-existing health issues. Once the research team adjusted for these health and socioeconomic factors, the elevated mortality risk associated with frequent binge drinking became much clearer.

Overall, the findings reinforce the need to broaden public health discussions about alcohol beyond youth-focused messaging. Campaigns addressing alcohol-related harm often emphasise risks such as accidents, injuries or impaired driving among younger people. However, the study suggests that heavy episodic drinking later in life may carry substantial long-term health consequences as well. As Canada’s population continues to age, researchers argue that prevention strategies, clinical screening and health education should increasingly address alcohol use among older adults. Further studies that track drinking patterns over time may provide even deeper insight. Still, the current evidence already indicates that frequent binge drinking poses a meaningful threat to longevity in later life.

More information: Andie MacNeil et al, Binge drinking and mortality among older adults: Findings from the Canadian Community Health Survey linked to the Canadian Vital Statistics Death Database, Alcohol. DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2026.02.002

Journal information: Alcohol Provided by University of Toronto

Protecting Brain Health: The Impact of Virgin Olive Oil on the Gut Microbiota

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Virgin olive oil is widely regarded as a central component of the Mediterranean diet and is well known for supporting cardiovascular and metabolic health. It contains a range of beneficial compounds, including antioxidants and polyphenols, which have been linked to reduced inflammation and improved heart function. Despite these recognised benefits, researchers have only recently begun to investigate how olive oil might influence the brain through the digestive system. A new study conducted by researchers from the Human Nutrition Unit at the Universitat Rovira i Virgili, the Pere Virgili Health Research Institute, and CIBERobn suggests that extra virgin olive oil may help protect cognitive function by influencing the gut microbiota.

The research team carried out what they describe as the first long-term human study specifically examining the relationship between olive oil consumption, gut microbiota, and cognitive function. The study analysed data from 656 participants between the ages of 55 and 75 who were overweight or obese and had metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. These individuals were part of the PREDIMED-Plus project, a large study focused on diet and health. Over two years, researchers monitored the participants’ diets, particularly their intake of different types of olive oil, while also examining the composition of their gut microbiota and assessing changes in their cognitive performance.

The findings showed clear differences between those who regularly consumed virgin olive oil and those who mainly used refined olive oil. Participants who consumed virgin olive oil demonstrated better cognitive performance over time. They also showed greater diversity in their gut microbiota, which is often considered an indicator of good intestinal and metabolic health. A diverse microbial community in the gut is associated with improved digestion, stronger immune function, and better regulation of inflammation. In contrast, participants who primarily consumed refined olive oil tended to show less diversity in their gut microbiota as the study progressed.

Researchers also identified a particular bacterial genus called Adlercreutzia that appeared to play a role in the relationship between olive oil consumption and cognitive health. Higher levels of this bacterium were linked to both increased intake of virgin olive oil and better preservation of cognitive function. This suggests that certain gut bacteria may help explain how dietary fats influence brain health. The study, therefore, highlights the possibility that the benefits of virgin olive oil extend beyond its direct nutritional properties and may involve complex interactions between diet, gut microorganisms, and brain function.

One important factor that distinguishes extra virgin olive oil from refined olive oil is the way it is produced. Extra virgin olive oil is obtained solely through mechanical pressing of olives, without chemical processing or high heat. This method helps preserve naturally occurring compounds such as antioxidants, polyphenols, and vitamins. Refined olive oil, however, undergoes industrial treatments designed to remove impurities and improve stability. While this process creates a more neutral product, it also removes many of the bioactive substances believed to contribute to olive oil’s health benefits. As a result, not all olive oils provide the same nutritional value.

The researchers emphasise that these findings highlight the importance of both the type and quality of dietary fats. While olive oil is already recognised for its role in heart health, the study suggests it contributes to maintaining cognitive function during ageing. As populations grow older and cases of cognitive decline and dementia become more common, improving diet quality may be a practical strategy for supporting long-term brain health. Choosing extra virgin olive oil instead of refined varieties represents a simple dietary change that may help promote healthier gut microbiota and protect cognitive function over time.

More information: Jiaqi Ni et al, Total and different types of olive oil consumption, gut microbiota, and cognitive function changes in older adults, Microbiome. DOI: 10.1186/s40168-025-02306-4

Journal information: Microbiome Provided by Universitat Rovira i Virgili