New study reveals key factors causing accelerated brain aging
The data obtained are consistent with generally accepted recommendations of doctors regarding the prevention of degenerative disorders of brain function.
A group of international scientists conducted a large-scale study designed to identify the main causes of premature aging of the brain. The results of the work, published in the authoritative journal Nature Communications, provide valuable knowledge in understanding this process.
As part of this project, specialists studied the influence of both genetic and modifiable factors on the state of certain areas of the brain. For this, they used data from neuroimaging studies of more than 40 thousand participants in the British Biobank, whose age was over 45 years.
Previously, scientists managed to identify the so-called "vulnerable" network in the structure of the brain, which, as it turned out, does not develop initially, but in adolescence, and is the first to undergo degenerative changes in older people. Moreover, it also turned out to be more susceptible to such serious neurological diseases as schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.
As part of the new study, specialists analyzed the influence of 161 different factors on this brain network. In this case, special attention was paid to parameters that can be modified by humans - bad habits, dietary habits, the presence of chronic diseases, etc.
As scientists note, the results of the work demonstrated that the most vulnerable to premature aging processes are those areas of the brain that are more susceptible to the negative impact of common dementia risk factors such as diabetes, air pollution and excessive alcohol consumption.
In addition, the researchers found that the state of the "vulnerable" brain network is affected by certain genetic variations associated with cardiovascular diseases, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
The data obtained are consistent with generally accepted recommendations of doctors regarding the prevention of degenerative disorders of brain function. Experts traditionally emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet with limited consumption of unhealthy foods, regular physical activity, giving up bad habits, as well as timely detection and control of chronic diseases.
The key risk factors for premature brain aging identified in this study may provide valuable guidance for developing more effective approaches to preventing and slowing down neurodegenerative processes. This knowledge may also contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the development of a number of serious neurological disorders, such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and others.