Neurologists talked about the effect of microplastics on the development of dementia

Damage to the smallest vessels of the brain may be one of the most underestimated causes of dementia. Elaine Barer, a professor at the University of New Mexico Medical School, has developed a new classification of vascular changes in the brain that allows us to take a fresh look at the origin of dementia and find possible treatment options. This was reported in the journal Science Daily.

As it is specified, many patients with Alzheimer's disease have signs of vascular brain damage, which often goes unnoticed. These micro-injuries disrupt the blood supply to tissues, cause inflammation, and lead to the gradual destruction of neurons.

Barer identified 10 processes that cause vascular damage, from hypoxia and leakage of blood serum to metabolic waste removal disorders. These changes cause microscopic strokes, leading to the death of neurons and deterioration of cognitive functions. The researcher paid special attention to the influence of microplastics. Using advanced microscopy and special tissue staining, the scientist's team found traces of microplastics in brain samples from dementia patients.

"Nanoplastics in the brain is a new factor that is changing our understanding of dementia pathology. We find it significantly more in people with cognitive impairments than in healthy participants," she stressed.

According to the researchers, the presence of microplastics is directly related to increased levels of inflammation and memory impairment. Scientists suggest that these particles can increase vascular damage and worsen the course of the disease. In addition, onii believes that a revision of traditional ideas about dementia will help identify the hidden mechanisms of the disease and, possibly, bring closer the search for a cure for this complex pathology.

The journal Medical Xpress reported on October that traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in the elderly can lead to dementia and the need for long-term care. Traumatic brain injuries occur when a direct blow to the head or indirect force (such as a neck fracture) is accompanied by one of the following symptoms: loss of consciousness, post-traumatic amnesia, disorientation, or neurological symptoms such as speech disorders, muscle weakness, and vision changes.

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