According to a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Western Ontario, sex hormones play a crucial role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. It is estimated that approximately 32 million people worldwide are affected by Alzheimer’s disease, with about two-thirds of these cases occurring in women. The study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, highlights the significant impact of female sex hormones on the manifestation of Alzheimer’s in the brain.
The higher prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in women compared to men has long puzzled researchers, with some attributing it to factors such as differences in longevity and genetics. Women tend to live longer than men, and they may also have a higher likelihood of having higher levels of tau protein in the brain, which is considered a main cause of Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, fluctuations in hormones related to menopause, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), have been linked to increased Alzheimer’s risk.
Another recent study found that menopausal women who experience frequent hot flashes during sleep are at a higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Vania Prado, professor in the Departments of Physiology, Pharmacology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology at the University of Western Ontario, emphasizes the role of chemical changes in the brain in the development of Alzheimer’s pathology. Specifically, the study focused on the relationship between acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for memory and cognition, and Alzheimer’s pathology. The researchers discovered that the presence of estradiol, a female sex hormone, disrupted this relationship in mice models and brain scans of older humans. However, when sex hormones were eliminated, the connection between acetylcholine and toxic amyloid was restored, potentially exacerbating Alzheimer’s pathology. This finding is particularly significant as postmenopausal women typically experience lower levels of estradiol.
Although the exact mechanism by which estradiol affects the build-up of beta-amyloid protein in the brain is still not fully understood, there is evidence to suggest that low levels of estradiol may impact immune cell response and increase amyloid pathology. Dr. Verna Porter, a neurologist and director of the Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, and Neurocognitive Disorders at Providence Saint John’s Health Center, recognizes the importance of these findings in clinical practice. Assessing a patient’s hormonal status, including their menopausal stage and the role of estradiol, could significantly influence the approach to Alzheimer’s risk assessment and management. Dr. Porter suggests emphasizing the importance of cognitive health monitoring and lifestyle modifications, such as cognitive stimulation and a healthy diet, for perimenopausal women at risk of Alzheimer’s disease. By considering the impact of sex-specific factors and hormonal status, healthcare professionals can provide more personalized and informed care for their patients.
