Scientists have uncovered the mechanism of impaired cerebral blood flow in dementia

Scientists have identified a new mechanism that may underlie cerebral circulatory disorders in vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease. We are talking about a deficiency of phospholipid PIP2, a component of cell membranes that affects the functioning of brain vessels. The results of the preclinical study were published on December 23 in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).

PIP2 is a part of cell membranes and participates in the regulation of proteins responsible for signal transmission. In the course of the work, the researchers found that this molecule plays a key role in controlling the activity of the Piezo1 ion channel located in the cells of the walls of cerebral vessels.

Piezo1 reacts to mechanical blood pressure and helps blood vessels adapt to changes in blood flow. Normally, PIP2 inhibits the activity of this channel, ensuring a stable blood supply to the brain. However, with a decrease in the phospholipid level, Piezo1 becomes overly active, which disrupts the fine-tuning of the vascular response.

Such disorders are characteristic of vascular dementia and are often observed in Alzheimer's disease. In experiments on mice, scientists have shown that restoring PIP2 levels normalizes Piezo1 and improves blood flow to the brain, including in cases of genetic channel disorders.

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The authors note that the data obtained indicate a promising direction of therapy. Instead of directly affecting nerve cells, it is proposed to adjust the functioning of the vascular system, which directly affects the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the brain.

The study is preclinical in nature, however, according to scientists, it opens up opportunities for the development of new drugs aimed at restoring membrane balance and improving cerebral blood flow in dementia and other neurovascular diseases.

Nutritionist and nutritionist Sofya Kovanova advised on December 15 to eat two to three hours before the feast, so as not to overeat. According to her, it's better to start with a vegetable salad with butter and lemon juice, after which you can gradually try the rest of the dishes.

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