Researchers have long known that Alzheimer’s patients have reduced blood flow in their brains, but the reasons why were not well understood. Dr. Oliver Bracko’s research indicates that one of the main causes of this reduced blood flow is a type of white blood cell called a neutrophil blocking capillaries, tiny blood vessels that deliver oxygen and nutrients to cells. When neutrophils temporarily block these blood vessels in the brain, causing inflammation and blood flow reductions, neurons don’t receive enough oxygen and nutrients, and there is less communication between them, which likely contributes to cognitive decline. Reducing this inflammation in the blood vessels could be a path toward new treatments.
