Higher density of blood vessels could point to Alzheimer’s

Scientists at the University of British Columbia found that mice modelled to show symptoms of Alzheimer's had nearly double the density of capillaries compared to normal mice. They also found a similarly higher density in brain samples of people who had died of the disease compared to those who hadn't had the disease.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'Identifying early changes that can be easily measured in people with Alzheimer's is one of the big challenges for scientists trying to develop treatments and ultimately a cure. This new research builds on existing knowledge and points towards an exciting new avenue of investigation. This could one day pave the way towards a better future for hundreds of thousands of people.'

'More research is now needed to confirm this link and also to answer the proverbial chicken and egg question of whether these changes are a cause or a symptom of the disease. One in three people over 65 will die with dementia yet dementia research is still drastically underfunded. We must invest now.'

Dr Susanne Sorensen

Head of Research

Alzheimer's Society

Research Reference: 'Amyloid triggers extensive cerebral angiogenesis causing blood brain barrier permeability and hypervascularity in Alzheimer's Disease' by Biron et al in PLoS One

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Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051 
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them 
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland 
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk