Comparative anatomic data suggest that an association system of brain regions underwent selective expansion during primate evolution; these regions are selectively vulnerable to Alzheimer's disease. Functional imaging studies using positron emission tomography (PET) show that they become abnormal earlier and more extensively than do other regions. Functional deficits occur at the level of the synapse in these regions. Activation brain blood flow studies with PET were designed to examine synaptic integrity in vivo, and to see how synaptic failure can be reversed by modulatory drugs in affected regions. Affected regions in Alzheimer's disease (AD) demonstrate a reduced critical temperature of membrane lipids, leading to membrane instability and ascribed to reduced concentrations of ethanol plasmalogen.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01AG000406-06
Application #
2565691
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (LN)
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
6
Fiscal Year
1996
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
National Institute on Aging
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code