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High-density lipoproteins and cerebrovascular integrity in Alzheimer's disease

Sophie Stukas1, Jérôme Robert1, Cheryl L Wellington1

  • 1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, 980 West 28(th) Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada.

Cell Metabolism
|February 11, 2014
PubMed

Insights

High-density lipoproteins (HDL) play a crucial role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) by protecting cerebrovascular health. Dysfunctional HDL exacerbates AD pathology, highlighting its therapeutic potential.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Lipid Metabolism

Background:

  • Cerebrovascular dysfunction is central to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis.
  • Vascular risk factors common in midlife, like hypertension and diabetes, are linked to increased AD risk.
  • These conditions often involve low or dysfunctional high-density lipoproteins (HDL), a known AD risk factor.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of HDL in Alzheimer's disease (AD).
  • To examine HDL's function in both the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral circulation concerning AD.
  • To propose synergistic interactions between CNS and peripheral HDL pools in AD.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical and preclinical studies on HDL and AD.
  • Analysis of HDL's functions in vascular health, including vasorelaxation, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
  • Examination of HDL's role in endothelial cell integrity and survival.

Main Results:

  • Beta-amyloid (Aβ) deposition in vascular cells causes inflammation and oxidative stress, impairing cerebrovascular function.
  • Dysfunctional HDL is associated with midlife vascular risk factors and increased AD risk.
  • HDL mediates critical functions in both the periphery and CNS, impacting vascular health and integrity.

Conclusions:

  • HDL is integral to maintaining cerebrovascular health and integrity, crucial for preventing AD.
  • Understanding the dual role of peripheral and CNS HDL in AD may reveal novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Targeting HDL function could offer a promising approach for Alzheimer's disease prevention and treatment.

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