New imaging technology has exposed hidden gut changes in Alzheimer’s, revealing a potential gut-brain link that could revolutionize early diagnosis and treatment.
Investigating gut alterations in Alzheimer’s disease: In-depth analysis with micro- and nano-3D X-ray phase contrast tomography Study: . Image Credit: Marko Aliaksandr / Shutterstock
Alzheimer’s disease impacts over 30 million people across the globe, yet the factors underlying its etiology remain unclear. Recent research has turned to the gut, exploring its potential role in Alzheimer’s progression. In a recent study published in the journal Science Advances , a team of researchers from Italy and France used advanced imaging techniques to explore the gut-brain axis and uncovered significant gut alterations in three distinct Alzheimer’s disease mouse models, shedding light on the disease’s complex nature. Background
Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia and is characterized by cognitive decline and brain deterioration. Despite extensive research, its precise causes remain unclear, and current treatments offer limited relief. Recent studies have highlighted the gut-brain axis — the communication pathway linking gut health and brain function — as a potential contributor to Alzheimer’s disease.
The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and has been linked to cognitive function. While past research suggests that dysbiosis—an imbalance in gut bacteria—may influence Alzheimer’s progression, this particular study focused on structural and cellular alterations in the gut rather than microbial composition. Evidence also suggests that disruptions in gut microbiota may promote inflammation and enable harmful bacteria to reach the brain.
Furthermore, changes in gut morphology have been observed in Alzheimer’s disease patients and animal models, suggesting a possible connection between gut health and neurodegeneration. About the study
First-ever nanoscale imaging of telocytes in Alzheimer’s models – The study used nano-XPCT to visualize telocytes, specialized cells involved in tissue repair, for the first time in Alzheimer’s disease research, suggesting their potential role in gut dysfunction.
With the hope that understanding these interactions between the gut microbiome and the brain may open new avenues for early diagnosis and innovative treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, the present study investigated gut alterations in Alzheimer’s disease models using […]
Alzheimer’s disease may leave early signs in the gut, study finds
