the health strategist
institute for strategic health transformation
& digital technology
Joaquim Cardoso MSc.
Chief Research and Strategy Officer (CRSO),
Chief Editor and Senior Advisor
September 27, 2023
One page summary
What is the message?
A recent study conducted by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital has uncovered the hormonal link between exercise and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
The study reveals that the hormone irisin, released during physical activity, can effectively reduce the deposition of amyloid beta protein fragments in brain cells.
This discovery sheds light on the critical role of exercise in combating Alzheimer’s disease and offers insights into potential therapeutic approaches.
ALEXANDRA BEIER/GETTY IMAGES
Key Takeaways:
Hormonal Link Discovered:
In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Neuron, Massachusetts General Hospital researchers have identified the hormone irisin as the key factor in reducing amyloid beta deposits in Alzheimer’s patients’ brain cells. These deposits are responsible for the development of plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Mechanism Unveiled:
By applying irisin to a 3D human cell culture model of Alzheimer’s, the researchers observed a significant increase in the activity of an enzyme called neprilysin.
This heightened enzyme activity resulted in a remarkable reduction in amyloid beta deposits and plaques, providing insight into the underlying mechanism by which exercise protects against Alzheimer’s.
Exercise as a Preventive Measure:
This discovery reaffirms the long-held belief that regular physical exercise can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Prior studies have shown that physically active individuals are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s, with a potential risk reduction of up to 45% for this specific form of dementia.
Alternative Risk Reduction Strategies:
While exercise is a powerful preventive measure, other activities such as engaging in cognitive challenges (e.g., puzzles, card games, chess), taking adult education classes, and pursuing mental stimulation can also lower the risk of developing dementia, particularly in individuals over the age of 70.
Medication Advancements:
Additionally, recent progress in medication development, such as the FDA-approved drug Lecanemab, which aims to clear brain plaque associated with dementia, offers hope for those at risk of Alzheimer’s. However, concerns about its safety have been raised.
Statistics:
- Regular exercise can reduce the risk of developing dementia by approximately 30%.
- For Alzheimer’s specifically, the risk can be reduced by as much as 45% through regular physical activity.
- Engaging in challenging cognitive activities can reduce the risk of dementia in individuals over the age of 70 by up to 11%.
- Alzheimer’s Disease International reports that 10 million new dementia cases are diagnosed globally each year, equivalent to one new case every 3.2 seconds. This number is expected to double every 20 years, with the highest increases seen in developing countries.
Examples:
- The study highlights that individuals who engage in regular exercise have a significantly reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease, emphasizing the importance of staying physically active throughout life.
- In addition to exercise, activities such as solving puzzles, playing card games, and pursuing education can also contribute to lowering dementia risk, making it possible for individuals to adopt a multifaceted approach to brain health.
- The FDA’s approval of the drug Lecanemab represents a milestone in dementia treatment, although concerns about its safety warrant ongoing evaluation and research.
In conclusion:
The groundbreaking discovery of the irisin hormone’s role in reducing amyloid beta deposits in Alzheimer’s patients’ brains underscores the critical link between exercise and Alzheimer’s disease risk reduction.
This knowledge provides a promising avenue for future therapeutic interventions while reinforcing the importance of an active and mentally stimulating lifestyle in preventing this devastating condition.
DEEP DIVE
This summary was written based on the article “Scientists Finally Discover Why Exercise Cuts Alzheimer’s Risk, Study Says”, published by Forbes and written by William Skipworth, on September 8, 2023.
To read the full article, click here.
