Imagine your brain as a bustling city, with neurons firing away like busy streets. In Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD), however, this city undergoes some dramatic changes. A team of scientists used a cutting-edge imaging system to uncover the impact of these diseases on biophotonic activities, or the light signals emitted by synapses and neural circuits. They discovered that these activities were significantly reduced and shifted towards the blue end of the spectrum in AD and VaD model animals. By blocking a specific receptor involved in these changes, they were able to partially reverse them. This study suggests that AD and VaD both affect how our brain processes and transmits signals, shedding light on the importance of biophotonics for advanced cognitive functions.
BackgroundAlthough clinically, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD) are the two major types of dementia, it is unclear whether the biophotonic activities associated with cognitive impairments in these diseases share common pathological features.MethodsWe used the ultraweak biophoton imaging system (UBIS) and synaptosomes prepared by modified percoll method to directly evaluate the functional changes in synapses and neural circuits in AD and VaD model animals.ResultsWe found that biophotonic activities induced by glutamate were significantly reduced and spectral blueshifted in synaptosomes and brain slices. These changes could be partially reversed by pre-perfusion of the ifenprodil, a specific antagonist of the GluN2B subunit of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs).ConclusionOur findings suggest that AD and VaD pathology present similar but complex changes in biophotonic activities and transmission at synapses and neural circuits, implying that communications and information processing of biophotonic signals in the brain are crucial for advanced cognitive functions.
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.
