Researching the Environmental Triggers
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Kentucky indicates that certain elements present in our natural surroundings, including chemicals widely used in the manufacturing of plastic products, could contribute as potential risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Anika Hartz, who holds a joint appointment in the Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences in the College of Medicine and the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences in the College of Pharmacy and heads the research, states, “Identifying environmental risk factors for Alzheimer’s is crucial in mitigating cognitive decline in humans. Our research indicates a link between bisphenols, commonly found in plastics, and an acceleration of Alzheimer’s disease, leading to cognitive deficits.”
Unmasking the Perils of Plastics
Research further points out that three types of bisphenols (BPA, BPF, and BPS) used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins can trigger blood-brain barrier dysfunction and memory problems. These compounds are widely found in food containers, water bottles, and can linings.
“Our data show that bisphenols trigger blood-brain barrier dysfunction and memory problems, both hallmarks of Alzheimer’s, signalling that environmental bisphenols are a critical yet under-recognized risk factor for the disease,” Hartz added.
Connecting Bisphenol Exposure and Alzheimer’s
Findings from the study titled “Bisphenol-Induced Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction in Alzheimer’s Disease” also spotlight the need to examine how the disruption caused by these chemicals to the endocrine system – responsible for hormone regulation – impacts the blood-brain barrier function, potentially exacerbating cognitive decline and speeding up the advent of Alzheimer’s disease.
The goal of the study, as Hartz explains, is “to develop fundamental knowledge of environmental impacts on human health that will promote healthier lives and reduce the burden of diseases — especially conditions related to aging.” The research brings novel insights expected to direct future health management strategies aimed at protecting cognition during health and disease.
Building on Preliminary Findings
This research builds on preliminary data funded by a pilot grant from the UK Centre for Appalachian Research in Environmental Sciences. A multi-disciplinary team of researchers spanning the colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, Public Health, and Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment contributed to this research.
The research, essential to understanding the extent to which our environment contributes to the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, is being backed by funds from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke as well as from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, both parts of the USA’s NIH—National Institutes of Health.
Note:
The information presented above represents the findings and opinions of the authors involved in the study and does not reflect the views of the National Institutes of Health.
