A team of researchers from the Karolinska Institute and the University of Gothenburg in Sweden has dedicated a new study to exploring biological signals for assessing the brain health of 739 participants aged 70, all of whom had no cognitive impairments.
The most significant marker of youthful brain health identified by the scientists is vascular health. This can be improved through habits such as regular physical activity, a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and managing glucose levels.
Conversely, brain aging was linked to physical inactivity, diabetes, and a history of stroke, as well as higher levels of inflammation and blood glucose.
In this context, the researchers found some differences between men and women. For instance, glucose levels have a more pronounced effect on brain aging in men, according to Science Alert.
How Was the Study Conducted?
To assess brain age, the team utilized a deep learning artificial intelligence model based on MRI results from 18,000 individuals without cognitive issues.
During the study, the scientists compared information from blood samples of the participants with their brain age assessments, as well as data on lifestyle, medical conditions, and cognitive test results.
“The algorithm is accurate and reliable, yet simple to use. It’s a research tool that still requires further evaluation, but our goal is for it to be used in clinical practice in the future, for example, in dementia research,” noted clinical geriatrician Erik Westman from the Karolinska Institute.
The brains of older adults are more susceptible to conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Meanwhile, the data gathered by the team offers insights into ways to protect against cognitive decline.
Previous studies have linked brain age to numerous factors, including blood sugar levels and living in poverty. According to the researchers, many of these factors can be addressed at either an individual or societal level.
“Despite the recent emergence of new drugs for treating Alzheimer’s disease, they won’t be effective for all dementia patients, which is why we want to investigate what can enhance the brain’s resilience to the pathological processes of aging,” said neurobiologist Anna Marsellia from the Karolinska Institute.
Since the factors associated with brain aging differ between women and men, the team plans to further explore the impact of biological determinants (such as hormones) and sociocultural factors on this process.
“Next year, we will begin a study to understand how social health, particularly social engagement in middle and older age, as well as sleep and stress, affect brain resilience; we will pay special attention to factors related to women’s health,” Ms. Marsellia stated.
The findings of the study were published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.