American researchers are exploring a less commonly accepted theory on the origin of Alzheimer’s. And if the disease was linked to food? During evolution, the food-seeking instinct relied on fructose, and might now promote the formation of Alzheimer’s according to the authors.
It is often accepted that Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by cognitive decline and brain atrophy associated with β-amyloid plaques and tau protein aggregation in neurons. Since no treatment aimed at reducing harmful aggregates is sufficiently effective, a previous hypothesis suggests that more “basic” mechanisms might be at the root of the disease. Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz are exploring the mechanism of the food-seeking instinct, fueled by the production of fructose in the brain.
« Alzheimer’s disease results from a maladjustment to an evolutionary survival pathway used by many animals and which was even essential to the survival of our distant ancestors millions of years ago.write the researchers in the study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. An important aspect of survival is ensuring sufficient amounts of food, water and oxygen. Here we describe a recently discovered response that promotes survival in times of scarcity, and which is initiated by the ingestion or production of fructose. Indeed, subsequent research has shown that animals use excessive consumption and metabolism of fructose to activate a survival response that prepares them for times when food, water or oxygen may be in short supply.
« We believe that initially, the fructose-related reduction in brain metabolism in these regions was reversible and should be beneficial. “, said in a press release Richard Johnson, professor at the University of Colorado Medical School.
…but might lead to inflammation of neurons today
« The chronic and persistent reduction in brain metabolism, induced by the recurrence of fructose, leads to progressive brain atrophy and loss of neurons with all the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease “, continues the professor. In other words, our modern society of overconsumption of foods rich in sugars (among others) leads to excessive production of fructose and disrupts the metabolism of our brain.
In times of food glut, it’s a bit like the “survival switch” of yesteryear is now stuck on ” on “. Johnson suspects that the tendency of some Alzheimer’s patients to wander off may be a holdover from the old foraging response. According to the study, the fructose produced in the brain can lead to inflammation of neurons, and even Alzheimer’s disease in the long term.
The researchers conclude that further studies are needed to ascertain the role of the metabolism of fructose and its metabolite (uric acid) in Alzheimer’s disease. ” We suggest that dietary and pharmacological trials aimed at reducing fructose exposure or blocking its metabolism be performed to determine if there is any potential benefit in the prevention, management or treatment of this disease. »
