Proteins May Slow Memory Loss in People with Alzheimer’s Disease

A groundbreaking study may indicate that the presence of a protein known as neuronal pentraxin-2 may slow the cognitive decline and brain atrophy found in Alzheimer’s disease, leading to hopes that this effect can be replicated and applied as a treatment. A food science and nutrition researcher at Iowa State University recently discovered the correlation, and presented the findings at the Psychoneuroimmunology Research Society‘s annual scientific meeting. Those displaying higher levels of neuronal pentraxin-2 displayed little to no memory loss within two years of diagnosis, while higher levels of inflammatory proteins seemed to accelerate the atrophy process. “Attaining higher levels of education, having a mentally demanding job, or regular and sustained mental effort builds something called cognitive reserve,” the author said. “Cognitive reserve is thought to be a protective factor against memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. Neuronal pentraxin-2 may play a role in building cognitive reserve, helping to help create and remodel connections between neurons to handle the increased complexity thrown at the brain.” To learn more about this study, click here.