Kentucky Researchers Link Microglia to Alzheimer’s Sleep Loss, Eye Earlier Detection
Updated
Updated · WKYT · Jul 27
Kentucky Researchers Link Microglia to Alzheimer’s Sleep Loss, Eye Earlier Detection
3 articles · Updated · WKYT · Jul 27
Summary
University of Kentucky researchers found that microglia — immune cells in the brain — appear to be the main driver of sleep loss tied to Alzheimer’s disease.
Years before severe memory decline, sleep disruption is already happening, and the team said measurable changes like that could help flag the disease earlier and guide treatment.
The findings came from mice, human biofluids, advanced imaging and mathematical modeling, leaving more research needed before any human trials.
Next, the team aims to learn how to control or reprogram microglia, which also protect the brain when functioning normally, in hopes of slowing cognitive decline.