New research suggests that factors such as diabetes, alcohol consumption, and traffic-related pollution may damage a brain region associated with dementia, which is the last to develop during adolescence and the first to deteriorate with age. The study examined the effects of various modifiable factors and genetic influences on dementia risk. The study found that diabetes, alcohol consumption, and nitrogen dioxide from traffic-related air pollution were the most likely culprits in the degradation of this brain region. Additionally, two mutations of a lesser-studied genome and an enigmatic blood group called the XG antigen system were examined.
The study, published in Nature Communications, analyzed data from 39,676 UK Biobank volunteers who were considered healthier than the general population and ranged in age from 44 to 83 years old. The effects of 161 modifiable and genetic factors were measured, including seven changes in the genome related to Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, cardiovascular death risk, and schizophrenia. Dr. Claire Sexton from the Alzheimer’s Association noted that the brain regions associated with long-term memory, executive tasks, working memory, and attention are vulnerable and deteriorate with age, which is why they were the focus of the study.
The study’s findings highlighted diabetes, alcohol intake, and air pollution as significant risk factors for the vulnerable brain network associated with dementia. Additionally, the researchers identified a peculiar genetic finding in the X chromosome related to a gene called the XG antigen system, which could influence susceptibility to accelerated brain region degeneration. This insight into genetic predisposition to environmental risk factors could help healthcare providers and patients intervene early to slow disease progression. The study also found associations between genetic clusters and modifiable risk factors like alcohol intake and diabetes, as well as genetic mutations associated with early life and socioeconomic factors.
The study builds on existing evidence that multiple risk factors may contribute to dementia onset. Dr. Sexton called for more research in representative populations to replicate and confirm the study’s findings. She also highlighted the Alzheimer’s Association’s Pointer Study, which is evaluating whether lifestyle interventions targeting multiple risk factors can protect cognitive function in older adults at increased risk for cognitive decline. The study follows over 2,000 volunteer older adults for two years to determine the impact of lifestyle interventions on cognitive health. Data from the study, which includes participants from historically underrepresented populations, is expected in 2025.
Overall, the study sheds light on the complex interplay between genetic and modifiable risk factors in the development of dementia. By identifying specific risk factors, such as diabetes, alcohol consumption, and air pollution, that contribute to brain region degeneration, healthcare providers can potentially intervene early to slow disease progression. The insights from this study emphasize the importance of understanding genetic predispositions and environmental influences on brain health to develop targeted interventions for dementia prevention and treatment.
