The cause of Alzheimer’s disease has long been a mystery to scientists, with experts pointing to a combination of genetics, environment, and lifestyle as potential factors. While factors like proper sleep, exercise, a healthy diet, and social interactions can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, the exact reason why some individuals develop the disease while others do not remains unknown. However, a recent study published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia suggests a groundbreaking theory that there might be a singular, simple cause behind Alzheimer’s disease that has eluded researchers until now. This new hypothesis challenges conventional beliefs in the field and could provide crucial insights for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of Alzheimer’s in the future.
Leading experts in the study include Carol Huseby, PhD, an assistant professor at the Banner Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center at Arizona State University; Verna Porter, MD, a neurologist and director of Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, and Neurocognitive Disorders at Pacific Neuroscience Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA; and Michal Schnaider Beeri, PhD, the director of the Herbert and Jacqueline Krieger Klein Alzheimer’s Research Center at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
The study reviewed existing research and data, particularly focusing on a recent study that identified various biological pathways associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers proposed that “stress granules” could be a key factor in why some individuals develop Alzheimer’s while others do not. These stress granules disrupt the movement of molecules between a cell’s nucleus and cytoplasm, leading to disturbances in essential biological processes like cell survival, metabolism, and gene expression. These disruptions can ultimately result in the formation of tau protein tangles and inflammation, which are common markers in Alzheimer’s patients. It is important to note that this theory is based on a scientific model using available data and has not yet been experimentally proven.
Explaining the concept of stress granules, the researchers describe them as clusters of proteins and RNA that form in response to cellular stress. While stress granules are designed to help cells cope with stress temporarily and resume normal function once the stressor is removed, in Alzheimer’s patients, these granules persist and hinder the normal movement of molecules in and out of the cell’s nucleus. This prolonged disruption caused by stress granules can significantly impact the cell’s regular functions, ultimately contributing to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
“The transportation of molecules and recycling of molecules,” she stated. This can potentially harm the cell and could ultimately lead to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. It is crucial to note that the scientists are discussing biological stress in this context, not psychological stress. Michal Schnaider Beeri, PhD, the director of the Herbert and Jacqueline Krieger Klein Alzheimer’s Research Center at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, clarified this distinction. “The ‘stress’ that causes these granules in biology differs from emotional stress,” she explained. “Biological stress refers to various challenges to the cell. Emotional stress, while it can have physical effects, is a psychological experience. While both types of stress can impact health, they operate through very different mechanisms at the cellular level.”
What specific stress factors lead to the formation of these granules? There are numerous potential stressors that can trigger the formation of these granules, such as exposure to toxins, traumatic brain injury, viruses, oxidative stress, and genetic mutations, as mentioned by Huseby. Falling ill or being exposed to environmental hazards like pollution and pesticides can also induce stress on your body—and your cells.
Can stress truly contribute to Alzheimer’s? While this study suggests a potential link between cell stress and Alzheimer’s, there is also a documented connection between psychological stress and the disease. “Chronic stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, which can lead to the shrinkage of the hippocampus,” noted Verna Porter, MD, a neurologist at the Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, and Neurocognitive Disorders at Pacific Neuroscience Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, emphasizing the involvement of the hippocampus in learning and memory. She also pointed out that experiencing anxiety and depression is associated with a higher risk of dementia.
Overall, “all signs indicate that cell stress occurs early in the disease process,” Huseby remarked. “Understanding when the disease is first detected before significant neuron loss occurs is crucial in comprehending Alzheimer’s disease,” she further explained. “This knowledge will pave the way for the most effective early treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.”
How can I reduce my risk of developing Alzheimer’s? There are still many unknowns about why certain individuals develop Alzheimer’s disease. The study presented is just one hypothesis. However, taking the following preventive measures may help reduce your risk, as suggested by the Alzheimer’s Association:
– Exercise regularly
– Quit smoking (or refrain from starting)
– Manage high blood pressure and diabetes
– Follow a heart-healthy diet
– Aim to maintain a healthy weight
– Stay socially connected
– Engage in activities that stimulate your brain with new challenges and experiences
Efforts to manage stress levels, such as practicing mindfulness, meditation, or engaging in relaxing hobbies, may also be beneficial, Dr. Porter suggested.
