The backup is active in Alzheimer's disease: a hypothesis from problem theory

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Problem theory identifies six general life problems, including the 'freedom problem' related to control and hope.
• Alzheimer's disease (AD) and APOE epsilon 4 carriers show preoccupation with the freedom problem.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of the freedom problem's protective mechanisms (cut-out and override) in Alzheimer's disease.
• To explore the neural basis and implications of these mechanisms in cognitive decline.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of EEG, metabolism, and brain atrophy findings in individuals with mild cognitive impairment and those who develop AD.
• Correlating brain activity and structural changes with the hypothesized function of cut-out and override mechanisms.

Main Results:

• The cut-out and override mechanisms are highly active in mild cognitive impairment, particularly in those progressing to AD.
• Brain atrophy patterns in AD are consistent with disuse resulting from overactive cut-out and override functions.
• Left hemisphere activity is linked to the freedom problem, while the right hemisphere manages the cut-out and override.

Conclusions:

• Dysfunctional cut-out and override mechanisms, associated with the freedom problem, may be early indicators and contributors to Alzheimer's disease progression.
• The right hemisphere's role as a backup system is crucial but can be impaired in AD.
• Further research into testosterone's role in immune function and AD is warranted.