2023 Alzheimer's Association Research Grant (AARG)

Metabolite Signatures of Mediterranean Diet, Cognitive Change and AD Risk

How might a Mediterranean diet impact cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s risk?

Christopher Papandreou, Ph.D.
Pere Virgili Health Research Institute Foundation
Tarragona, Spain

Background

Many researchers believe that there is not a single cause of Alzheimer’s but rather it develops over time as a result of multiple factors such as lifestyle, environment, and genetics. Studies show that nutrition may impact brain function and activity as well as the lifetime risk of developing Alzheimer’s in later life. For instance, studies suggest that following a Mediterranean diet is associated with slower rates of cognitive decline and lower risk of Alzheimer’s. Individuals following a Mediterranean diet obtain their nutrients from fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, whole nuts and grains, and fish and seafood; drink moderate amounts of red wine; and limit their intake of red meat.

The mechanisms by which Mediterranean diets impact one’s cognitive function and Alzheimer’s risk are currently unknown. Dr. Christopher Papandreou and colleagues believe that following a Mediterranean diet may change an individual’s metabolism, the process during which the body breaks down foods into energy.

Research Plan

During metabolism, the body produces different compounds called metabolites that are transported throughout the body to cells to carry out vital functions. Dr. Papandreou and colleagues will study the metabolites found from  following a Mediterranean diet and how they may be associated with Alzheimer’s and mild cognitive impairment (MCI: a subtle state of memory impairment that may precede Alzheimer’s). The team will also use sophisticated biological and statistical methods to study how Mediterranean diet metabolites interact with the gut microbiome (the community of microorganisms that live within the intestine and impact overall human health).

Impact

This study may shed light on the biological mechanisms underlying the impact of a Mediterranean diet on cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s risk.