Scientists have found out why diabetics have the increased risk of Alzheimer's disease

According to scientists, cholesterol is necessary for the normal brain activity. But due to diabetes the brain cholesterol concentrations can be reduced. This is proved by experiments in mice. The scientists suppressed cholesterol production in the brain in rodents. After that, neurological disorders have appeared in the animals, Medical Xpress reports.

For a long time researchers have been studying cholesterol role in the development of Alzheimer's disease. It is known that mutation in ApoE gene associated with cholesterol production is one of the major risk factors of dementia. According to previous studies, astrocytes produce a large part of cholesterol in the brain.

In the new study the researchers "switched off" Srebp2 gene regulating the synthesis of cholesterol in mice. The experts noticed that these rodents had much smaller brain compared to other animals. In addition, the mice with "off" "Srebp2 gene had many deviations in the behavior. They had problems in learning, everyday tasks as well as problems with memory.

So, the animals developed the symptoms resembling Alzheimer's disease symptoms. However, they were more serious. In addition, the metabolism of these mice was changed. They burned more carbohydrates and gained weight a little. The researchers concluded that cholesterol plays an important role in the connection between diabetes and dementia. The scientists plan to continue their studies.

Source: Medical Xpress.