It was long thought that fat in the brain played no role in neurodegenerative diseases, but Purdue University researchers are challenging that assumption.

After a previous study that showed how microplastics can infiltrate all systems of the body—including the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from harmful substances as small as viruses and bacteria—URI pharmacy assistant professor Jaime Ross expanded the study to determine the brain health impacts of the plastic toxins. Her findings indicate that the accumulation of micro- and nanoplastics in the brain can lead to cognitive decline and even Alzheimer’s disease, especially in those who carry genetic risk factors.

A new study from Aarhus University shows that our cells’ ability to clean out old protein clumps, known as aggregates, also includes a - up till now unknown - partnership with an engine that breaks down bigger pieces into smaller before” taking it to the trash.” An important find for future treatments of diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS and Huntington’s, which are all characterized by the accumulation of protein in the brain.