Imagine a car that starts to have engine trouble before showing any other signs of wear and tear. In a similar fashion, scientists have observed that motor dysfunction, such as problems with movement and balance, often appear before other symptoms in patients with Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). However, the underlying mechanisms behind this phenomenon have remained largely unknown. In a recent study using an aging mouse model of AD, researchers sought to uncover this mystery. They discovered a correlation between two factors – extravasated fibrinogen deposits and cerebrovascular damage in the striatum, a brain region involved in motor control. The older AD mice showed an increase in fibrinogen deposits and decreased cerebrovascular density in the striatum compared to younger AD mice. Additionally, they found evidence of demyelination and axonal damage in this brain region. Importantly, the impaired motor function was only evident in the aged AD mice. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential mechanism underlying motor dysfunction in AD. For more details about this fascinating research, make sure to check out the full article!
Introduction: Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) patients exhibit signs of motor dysfunction, including gait, locomotion, and balance deficits. Changes in motor function often precede other symptoms of AD as well as correlate with increased severity and mortality. Despite the frequent occurrence of motor dysfunction in AD patients, little is known about the mechanisms by which this behavior is altered.Methods and Results: In the present study, we investigated the relationship between cerebrovascular impairment and motor dysfunction in a mouse model of AD (Tg6799). We found an age-dependent increase of extravasated fibrinogen deposits in the cortex and striatum of AD mice. Interestingly, there was significantly decreased cerebrovascular density in the striatum of the 15-month-old as compared to 7-month-old AD mice. We also found significant demyelination and axonal damage in the striatum of aged AD mice. We analyzed striatum-related motor function and anxiety levels of AD mice at both ages and found that aged AD mice exhibited significant impairment of motor function but not in the younger AD mice.Discussion: Our finding suggests an enticing correlation between extravasated fibrinogen, cerebrovascular damage of the striatum, and motor dysfunction in an AD mouse model, suggesting a possible mechanism underlying motor dysfunction in AD.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.