Experts from Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) have found a new cause of Alzheimer’s disease. As it is understood, senile dementia may develop due to iron. The results of the research were published at: magazine Neurology Annuals.
The authors used the latest method to study brain tissue – immunofluorescence. It is a technique used in biological research and diagnostics to detect specific antigens in biological samples. Scientists use fluorescent dyes and antibodies to detect and visualize specific antigens in biological samples (in this case, the brains of people with dementia).
The results of the analysis showed that ferroptosis (a type of cell death caused by iron accumulation) destroyed immune cells in the brain. These cells are called microglia, they are involved in cleaning tissues from cellular “garbage”. But in this case, the “garbage” is particles of iron-rich myelin that form a protective layer around nerves.
Experts believe that this effect underlies the mechanism of cognitive decline observed in Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Future studies will aim to find and develop therapeutic strategies against the development of ferroptosis.
ancient scientists to solveIt is stated that older internet users are half as likely to have dementia.