Alpha Linolenic Acid-enriched Nutrition for Prevention of Cognitive Decline in APOE4 Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment: Targeting Cerebrovascular and Blood-brain Barrier Health
Michal Schnaider Beeri, Ph.D.
Summary
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial will evaluate the effects of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) supplementation on cognitive function, blood-brain barrier integrity, and brain vascular health in older adults with mild cognitive impairment and APOE4 genotype. By targeting the endogenous synthesis of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) through ALA supplementation, the investigators aim to overcome the limitations of direct DHA supplementation, particularly in APOE4 carriers who exhibit low brain DHA levels and impaired blood-brain barrier function. This innovative approach offers a safe, cost-effective, and easily implementable therapeutic strategy for older adults at high risk for Alzheimer's dementia, especially APOE4 carriers, addressing a critical need given the limited cognitive benefits and significant adverse events of current amyloid-clearing drugs in this population.
Description
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study will evaluate the effects of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)-enriched nutrition on cognitive function, blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, and brain vascular health in a high-risk population of older adults with MCI and APOE4 genotype. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a critical fatty acid for brain health, is synthesized from ALA. Despite previous research showing limited cognitive benefits from DHA supplementation, APOE4 carriers have low brain DHA levels. This deficiency may stem from impaired transport across the BBB and compromised BBB…