Stress may be associated with the development of Alzheimer disease, as well as other neurodegenerative disorders. Tusziynski and colleagues at the University of California, San Diego, determined that monkeys subjected to environmental stress developed high levels of glucocorticoids. Elevated levels of glucocorticoids lead to a decrease in neuronal synapses and an increase in amyloid plague. Both of these neurological abnormalities are present in Alzheimer disease.

Monkeys in the experimental group were housed in extremely small cages. The small cages limited the mobility of the monkeys and led to behaviors related to stress. The research group also determined a correlation between stressful life experiences and alterations in cognitive functions. Tusziynski emphasizes that the relationship is not causal, but does provide evidence that moderate stress can worsen symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases. Further research, based on these correlations, may determine that positive, stress-reducing lifestyle changes help slow the progression of Alzheimer disease.

Source: Mosso B. Neurostress: how stress may fuel neurodegenerative diseases. Scientific American. Mind Matters. February 1, 2011. Available athttp://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=neurostress-how-stress-ma. Accessed February 15, 2010.

Submitted by: Robin E. Pattillo, PhD, RN, CNL, News Editor at [email protected].