How DHA fights Alzheimer's

Posted on 2005-09-29 11:18:55 in Dietary Supplementation |

New research helps explain how the fatty acid DHA protects against Alzheimer's, a benefit noted in several studies.

In a report to be published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation , Nicolas Bazan and colleagues from Louisiana State University have shown a mechanism by which DHA is neuroprotective.

The researchers have shown that DHA decreases levels of pathogenic peptides called Abeta peptides while increasing the synthesis of a protective DHA-derived messenger called neuroprotectin D1 (NPD1).

NPD1 inhibits apoptosis triggered by Abeta peptides.

In a human brain with Alzheimer's, the researchers showed that DHA and NPD1 were reduced in vulnerable brain regions.

This, they say, suggests that NPD1 is a key regulator of cell survival, a finding that could provide insight into developing new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.


Read Full Story

Health Headlines

Language and memory tests can reliably predict when a healthy elderly person is likely to develop mild cognitive impairment, a precursor to dementia
Rush University Medical Center (USA) embarks on a research study to ascertain how microbial imbalances may impact diseases such as breast cancer.
Yale University researchers report improved function of the blood vessel lining and reduced cholesterol levels in diabetics who consume walnuts daily.
Routine moderate exercise can reduce the risk of premature death in people with heart problems by up to 60%.
Added as a sweetener to many processed foods and beverages, fructose (also known as high fructose corn syrup), may increase blood pressure.
Diets high in sodium and artificially sweetened soda linked to kidney function decline.
Antioxidant compounds retard the ability of influenza virus to damage a key protein in lungs
Studying an animal model of spinal cord injury, UCSD researchers report successful regeneration of nerve cells even when treatment is delayed.
Gallup Survey finds that 11.3% of American adults have diabetes, and the trend upwards is projected to continue unless aggressive interventions are implemented.
More than 11% of American adults surveyed say they failed to enjoy a day in the previous month where they got enough sleep.
Looking for an Anti-aging Doctor?

upcoming Events

U.S. Events
congresses
Las Vegas
fellowships
fellowships
symposium
workshops
  • Advanced Hormone Symposium
    Chicago, IL | Oct. 8-10, 2010

VIDEO: Bio-Identical Hormone
          Replacement

Dr. Sangeeta Pati, one of the world’s foremost educators and practicing physicians in the field of HRT shared “The Nuts and Bolts of Hormone Restoration” via webinar. View the Webinar.

International Events
See all events »