The potential of circulating nonesterified fatty acids and sphingolipids in the biological understanding of cognitive decline and dementia

Kristine F. Moseholm*, Josefine T. Meineche, Majken K. Jensen

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReviewResearchpeer-review

Abstract

Purpose of review Cognitive decline and late-onset dementia pose significant challenges in aging societies, and many dementia cases could be prevented or delayed through modification of associated risk factors, many of which are tied to cardiovascular and metabolic dysfunction. As individuals age, the blood-brain barrier becomes more permeable, easing the exchange of molecules between the bloodstream and the brain. Consequently, blood-based biological markers (so-called biomarkers) provide a minimally invasive and accessible means of accessing molecular changes associated with aging and neurodegeneration. Recent findings Circulating free fatty acids, also called nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs), and sphingolipids are associated with cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, and diabetes; thus, could be promising candidates as biomarkers for cognitive decline and dementia. Summary The opportunity to study such minimally invasive biomarkers further opens up potential new avenues for improved understanding of the underlying biology of diseases of the brain.

Original languageEnglish
JournalCurrent Opinion in Lipidology
Volume36
Issue number1
Pages (from-to)27-37
Number of pages11
ISSN0957-9672
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2025

Bibliographical note

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Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • cognitive decline
  • dementia
  • nonesterified fatty acids
  • sphingolipids

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