High blood-sugar makes Alzheimer's more deadly

A new study has revealed that high blood-sugar levels, such as those linked with Type 2 diabetes, make beta amyloid protein associated with Alzheimer's disease dramatically more toxic to cells lining blood vessels in the brain.

The Tulane University study supports growing evidence pointing to glucose levels and vascular damage as contributors to dementia.

"Previously, it was believed that Alzheimer's disease was due to the accumulation of 'tangles' in neurons in the brain from overproduction and reduced removal of beta amyloid protein," senior investigator Dr. David Busija, regents professor and chair of pharmacology at Tulane University School of Medicine, said.

"While neuronal involvement is a major factor in Alzheimer's development, recent evidence indicates damaged cerebral blood vessels compromised by high blood sugar play a role. Even though the links among Type 2 diabetes, brain blood vessels and Alzheimer's progression are unclear, hyperglycemia appears to play a role," he said.

The study is published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.