Alzheimer's, the most common cause of dementia, affects millions, including a growing number of younger adults. Researchers at the University of California-San Francisco have discovered that physical activity in mice primes the liver to release an enzyme that eliminates a harmful protein associated with Alzheimer's. This enzyme, GPLD1, travels to the brain's blood vessels and clears TNAP, a protein that weakens the blood-brain barrier and contributes to inflammation and memory decline.
In studies, reducing TNAP levels in older mice improved memory performance and reduced inflammation. Scientists believe this mechanism, even when activated later in life, holds significant promise for developing new Alzheimer's therapies that target the blood-brain barrier, potentially offering an alternative to brain-focused strategies.
While human replication is pending, current health guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus two strength training sessions, to support both brain and heart health.