Interconnected systems
Commenting on the study in a conference statement, Heather M. Snyder, PhD, vice president of medical and scientific relations at the Alzheimer’s Association, noted that “our body systems are all interconnected. When one system is malfunctioning, it impacts other systems. When that dysfunction isn’t addressed, it can create a waterfall of consequences for the rest of the body.”
Dr. Snyder cautioned, however, that “there are a lot of unanswered questions about the connection between the health of our digestive system and our long-term cognitive function. Answering these questions may uncover novel therapeutic and risk-reduction approaches for Alzheimer’s and other dementias.”
In an interview, Percy Griffin, PhD, director of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer’s Association, noted that the U.S. Study to Protect Brain Health Through Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce Risk, is evaluating the impact of behavioral interventions on the gut-brain axis.
“We want to better understand how engaging in healthier habits can impact microorganisms in the gut and how changes in gut bacteria relate to brain health,” Dr. Griffin said.
The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health. Dr. Ma, Dr. Wang, Dr. Snyder, and Dr. Griffin have no relevant disclosures.
A version of this article first appeared on Medscape.com.