ISSN:
1432-1440
Keywords:
Key words Alzheimer’s disease
;
Aging
;
Senile plaques
;
Amyloid
;
High serum cholesterol
;
Lectin staining
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Activated microglial cells are concentrated in senile plaques characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease. Such accumulations of activated microglia may contribute towards neurodegeneration via production of cytokines and free radicals. Studies suggesting a link between Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease led us to study microglia immunohistochemically, using monoclonal antibody LN-3, in age-matched nondemented humans with and without heart disease. Using a qualitative staging system for assessing morphological changes occurring in microglia, we found higher microglial activation in the brains of subjects with heart disease than in those without it. Lectin histochemical examination of brains from rabbits maintained on a high-cholesterol diet also revealed increased microglial activation and leukocyte infiltration. Collectively our observations from humans and rabbits suggest that hypercholesterolemia and heart disease accelerate brain aging, and that the formation of senile plaques may be the end result of progressive microglial activation that occurs with aging.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s001090050097
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