MIT researchers used single-cell RNA profiling to study gene expression changes in the brains of Alzheimer's patients and identified patterns of gene expression and cellular differences that contribute to cognitive impairment or resilience.
The study found that astrocytes promote cognitive immunity through antioxidant activity and choline metabolism, which could help protect against Alzheimer's disease.
A key finding was the reduced abundance of specific neurons involved in Reelin signaling, which is linked to cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's patients.
Reelin seems to have a crucial role in protecting the brain against Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline.
Reelin-expressing neurons are more resistant to neurodegeneration, and individuals with higher cognitive function tend to have more Reelin-producing neurons.
Reelin-producing neurons are selectively damaged in Alzheimer's, reducing brain protection.
The researchers compared gene expression across multiple brain regions in people with or without Alzheimer's disease and conducted lab experiments to validate their key findings, emphasizing potential targets for interventions to preserve cognition and memory.
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq
Sources: InsideHook, Newser, Arizona Public Media, News-24, Tittle Press, ExBulletin, WKU Public Radio, Ondarock, Focus UA, DC Medical, American Songwriter, Medical News Today, SciTechDaily, Twoday, Technology Networks.