Damage to a Protective Shield Around the Brain May Lead to Alzheimer's and Other Diseases

Research determined that the age-related deterioration of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) may lead to Alzheimer's and other disorders, but animal studies could offer hope, reports Scientific American . The researchers observed that a targeted drug can halt cognitive problems caused by BBB leakage-related inflammation in older rats. This involves shielding brain cells from being irritated by blood proteins or by making genetic alterations that prevent those cells from emitting inflammatory molecules. Moreover, imaging studies revealed excessive and progressive BBB leakage in people with Alzheimer's. A cascade of disturbances in the brain's electrical function has been traced to the blood protein albumin. These and other findings suggest that pharmaceutical research should focus on fortifying the BBB rather than making it more permeable.