Discover the NeuroBlog
Learn about the science behind our interventions across the following categories.
NeuroBlog
Here are overviews of research papers that we have written, and papers that have inspired our work.
Audiovisual Neuromodulation
Flickering Lights and Rhythmic Sounds May Help the Brain Clear Harmful Proteins
A study published in the journal Nature suggests that simply using a combination of flickering lights and rhythmic sounds at a precise brain rhythm—called the gamma frequency—could help clear harmful substances, such as misfolded proteins, from the brain. These findings were made by examining mice genetically engineered to model neurodegnerative disotders. The researchers found that presenting these mice with stimulation at 40 light flashes and sound pulses per second led to enhanced circulation of the fluid that bathes the brain, known as cerebrospinal fluid. This fluid is central to the brain’s own cleaning system and helps flush out metabolic waste, including proteins that accumulate in early stages of neurodegenerative disorders.
The study showed that this gamma-frequency stimulation improved how well tiny channels in brain cells function, making it easier for cerebrospinal fluid to move through the brain and carry waste away. In addition, the researchers identified a specific type of cell, called a vasoactive intestinal polypeptide interneuron, that helps blood vessels pulsate more strongly. This pulsation appears to be key in pumping fluid through the brain tissue. The stimulation-induced changes also increased the size and efficiency of the small drainage vessels beneath the skull, allowing more waste to leave the brain and travel to the body’s lymph nodes for disposal.
For people who may be concerned about neurodegeneration, these findings offer a promising, noninvasive approach to supporting brain health. While this research has so far been carried out in mice, it suggests that future treatments might involve sessions of light and sound exposure to support the brain’s own housekeeping systems. If similar results hold true in humans, it could mean a drug-free way to help slow or prevent the buildup of toxic proteins, providing a helpful tool in maintaining clearer thinking and healthier aging.
Murdock, M.H., Yang, CY., Sun, N. et al. Multisensory gamma stimulation promotes glymphatic clearance of amyloid. Nature 627, 149–156 (2024).
Neural ‘Waves’ May Help Clear the Brain of Waste in Early Neurodegeneration
Scientists have long puzzled over how the human brain, despite lacking traditional lymphatic vessels, manages to remove its metabolic waste. New research published in Nature has identified a surprising mechanism: rhythmic, wave-like activity generated by groups of neurons can help pump fluid through the brain, washing away harmful byproducts.
When we sleep or undergo certain types of anesthesia, our brain cells synchronize their firing, creating powerful, rhythmic ionic “waves” in the fluid between nerve cells. These waves appear to guide the movement of cerebrospinal fluid deep into the brain tissue. The cerebrospinal fluid then carries away metabolic wastes that, if allowed to build up, can contribute to the early onset of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease.
The study’s authors demonstrated that when they inhibited these neuronal waves, cerebrospinal fluid flow into and out of the brain slowed dramatically, reducing the brain’s ability to cleanse itself. Conversely, artificially stimulating these waves enhanced fluid movement, suggesting a potential new strategy to boost the brain’s natural cleaning system. For people who may be entering the age range where early signs of neurodegenerative conditions begin—understanding and possibly harnessing these rhythms could be significant.
The findings hint that treatments encouraging stable, sleep-like brain states might help maintain healthy waste clearance as we age. Improving sleep quality or developing gentle non-invasive brain stimulation to enhance these beneficial waves might, down the road, slow the earliest stages of brain diseases. Though it’s still early days, this research points toward a fresh angle on brain health: leveraging the power of these hidden “neural tides” to keep our minds clear and resilient as we grow older.
Jiang-Xie, LF., Drieu, A., Bhasiin, K. et al. Neuronal dynamics direct cerebrospinal fluid perfusion and brain clearance. Nature 627, 157–164 (2024).
Flickering Light Shows Promise in Calming the Brain’s Immune Signals
Imagine sitting in a comfortable chair and looking at a gentle, flickering light for an hour. Recent research from a team of scientists at Georgia Tech and Emory University suggests that doing something like this—when the light flickers at a very specific speed—can subtly shift the brain’s own immune environment in healthy mice. Here’s what that might mean for people worried about or experiencing early signs of neurodegenerative disorders.
In this study, the scientists used a flickering light at 40 flashes per second (that’s called 40 Hz) to create a distinctive kind of brain activity pattern known as a “gamma” rhythm. Within just one hour, this rhythm changed how the brain’s immune cells, called microglia, looked and behaved, as well as how certain signaling molecules called cytokines were produced. Microglia normally help keep the brain clean and healthy, and cytokines influence how cells talk to each other—sometimes turning inflammation up or down. When the researchers tuned the light flicker to 40 Hz, they found that these changes nudged the brain toward signals often linked to a calmer, more stable environment rather than the “stormy” conditions of full-blown inflammation.
The two images of the brains show the response in the visual cortex from 40 Hz or 20 Hz visual stimulation. The line graphs show average voltage imaging traces across 6 mice with 10 trials per mouse.
For someone facing the first steps of a neurodegenerative disorder, this research is an early beam of hope. While it’s too soon to say that a flickering light can prevent or cure anything, these findings add to a growing body of evidence that gentle, noninvasive sensory therapies might help maintain a healthier balance inside the brain. The idea that simply “tuning” the brain’s rhythms might encourage it to clear harmful proteins, calm excessive inflammation, or better support cell health is a new frontier. In the years ahead, more studies will be needed to test these ideas in people and confirm if such stimulation can truly help slow down or reduce certain disease processes. But for now, this is an encouraging step that may lead to future, more accessible treatments beyond traditional medications.
Ashley Prichard et al. Brain rhythms control microglial response and cytokine expression via NF-κB signaling. Sci. Adv. 9 (2023).
New Research Shines a Light (and Sound) on Helping Early Brain Degeneration
A recently published study in Nature Communications offers promising insights into a non-invasive approach that could help people with early-stage neurodegenerative conditions. Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that exposing mice to carefully timed flashes of light and sounds—both set to a “gamma” rhythm of about 40 times per second—helped protect and even restore the brain’s delicate insulation known as myelin.
Myelin is a fatty covering that speeds up communication between brain cells. When it’s damaged, as in many neurodegenerative diseases, mental and physical functions can decline. In the study, mice given a toxin that strips away their myelin showed significant improvements after weeks of exposure to these carefully patterned light and sound pulses. This “multisensory gamma stimulation” reduced the harmful inflammation that often accompanies myelin loss, encouraged the growth of new myelin-producing cells, and preserved the ability of brain pathways to send signals smoothly.
Why is this important for people who might be experiencing the early warning signs of neurodegeneration? If a similar effect is seen in humans, it could mean a low-risk way to slow down or even partially reverse early damage to the brain’s communication networks. Current treatments focus on reducing symptoms, but not all help rebuild myelin. This non-invasive approach—simply experiencing patterned light and sound for a short period each day—could one day work alongside conventional treatments, improving quality of life and potentially helping maintain memory, clarity, and mobility for longer.
While it is still early days, these new findings bring hope that our senses might be harnessed in a surprisingly gentle way to protect and even repair the aging brain.
Rodrigues-Amorim, D., Bozzelli, P.L., Kim, T. et al. Multisensory gamma stimulation mitigates the effects of demyelination induced by cuprizone in male mice. Nature Communication 15, 6744 (2024).
Flickering Light at 40 Hz Could Help Improve Sleep in Early-Stage Neurodegenerative Disorders
A new study published in Cell Research has identified a simple, non-invasive approach that may improve sleep quality in people showing early signs of neurodegenerative conditions. By exposing mice to a flickering light at 40 times per second (40 Hz), researchers boosted levels of a brain chemical called adenosine, which is known to promote and regulate sleep.
Adenosine naturally builds up in the brain the longer we stay awake, signaling when it’s time to rest. In this study, just 30 minutes of exposure to 40 Hz flickering light caused adenosine levels in the visual areas of the mouse brain to rise significantly. These higher adenosine levels lasted for hours after the light stopped, leading to deeper, more sustained sleep. Mice drifted off more easily and slept longer, without any apparent harmful side effects.
Importantly, the effect was specific to 40 Hz: flicker rates of 20 Hz or 80 Hz were far less effective. This suggests that the brain responds best to a certain rhythm of light flashes, triggering the body’s own natural sleep-promoting chemistry.
The images above show the brains responses to light stimulation. The strongest response occurs at when the light flickers 40 times per second (40 Hz).
Although these results come from animal experiments, they could have meaningful implications for people experiencing early stages of neurodegeneration. Neurodegenerative disorders, such as mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, often disrupt sleep, making it harder for individuals to think clearly and stay alert during the day. By harnessing a safe, simple stimulus—flickering light—this approach might help restore healthier sleep patterns and potentially slow the worsening of memory and thinking problems.
Human trials are the next step. If these findings translate safely and effectively, flickering light stimulation could become a practical tool to improve sleep quality and support brain health in people at risk of neurodegenerative disorders. It’s a promising example of how fine-tuning our sensory environment may nudge the brain’s natural chemistry toward better rest—and a better quality of life.
Zhou, X., He, Y., Xu, T. et al. 40 Hz light flickering promotes sleep through cortical adenosine signaling. Cell Research 34, 214–231 (2024).
New Research Shines a ‘Rhythmic Light’ on Early-Stage Brain Disorders
A recent review from leading brain researchers at MIT highlights a fascinating new way to help people experiencing the early stages of neurodegenerative disorders by using gentle, rhythmic flashes of light and sound. This technique, called gamma stimulation, delivers light flickers or audio tones at around 40 times per second (40 Hz) and has caught scientists’ attention for how it might slow or ease early brain damage.
Why is this so interesting? Well, our brain cells communicate through electrical pulses that create rhythms, somewhat like music in the brain. In conditions such as neurodegenerative disorders, these rhythms often go out of tune. The studies highlighted in this review found that by exposing people to 40 Hz flickering light and sounds, it might help restore more normal brain activity. Think of it as reintroducing a steady drumbeat into a piece of music that has lost its rhythm. In early test results, patients showed improvements in brain structure and function, as well as better memory scores. One study even suggested that this rhythmic “tune-up” helped reduce the loss of the brain’s crucial wiring and slowed brain shrinkage.
For someone who’s just begining to experience neurodegeneration, this research offers a message of hope. Gamma stimulation is non-invasive, meaning no needles or surgery—just lights and sounds applied outside the body. It’s safe, and it can be integrated into everyday life. Scientists are even exploring easy-to-use at-home devices. Beyond memory improvements, these studies hint that regular gamma stimulation might help preserve everyday functions, like getting dressed or making a cup of coffee, for longer.
While it’s not yet a standard treatment and more research is needed, these findings make it an exciting time in the world of brain health. After all, if simply watching a flickering light or listening to gentle, rhythmic tones could help stabilize brain rhythms, it may give people and their families a new tool to hold onto what matters most: their independence, their memories, and their quality of life.
Blanco-Duque C, Chan D, Kahn MC, Murdock MH, Tsai L-H. Audiovisual gamma stimulation for the treatment of neurodegeneration. J Intern Med. 2024; 295: 146–170.
Vibrotactile Neuromodulation
New Vibrating Wristband Offers Hope and Inspiration for People with Parkinson’s-Related Tremors
A new pilot study from Teachers College at Columbia University and Microsoft Research has tested a small wrist-worn device, known as the “Emma Watch,” that uses gentle vibrations to help people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) who experience action tremors—those shaky, involuntary movements that occur when you try to do everyday tasks like writing or drawing. While the study involved just nine participants, it showed that a few individuals not only felt more confident while writing or drawing with the device on, but they also noticed a slight improvement in the smoothness of their handwriting.
For anyone diagnosed with Parkinson’s or another neurodegenerative condition, it’s easy to feel discouraged by changes in your body. You might wonder, “Is there anything I can do?” This research suggests there may be tools and strategies that can restore some control. Wearable technology like the Emma Watch doesn’t involve surgery or extra medication. Instead, it delivers subtle vibrations to the wrist that “confuse” the brain’s usual shaky signals, potentially allowing your hand movements to feel steadier and more predictable.
Although the results are still early—and larger studies are needed—this wearable shows that progress is being made. By experimenting with vibration levels, combining this tool with exercises tailored to hand strength and flexibility, or using it more regularly, there’s hope that many people could regain confidence in their ability to perform everyday tasks.
This small breakthrough can be inspiring. It highlights that, even as conditions like PD evolve, people have the power to take action. You can speak with your doctor or therapist about exploring new technologies, staying active, and practicing simple exercises that support hand and wrist function. Every effort you make can add to your quality of life, independence, and sense of hope. Tools like the Emma Watch hint at a future where slowing down—or even somewhat easing—movement challenges may be more within reach than ever.
Pacheco, Alissa, et al. "A Wearable Vibratory Device (The Emma Watch) to Address Action Tremor in Parkinson Disease: Pilot Feasibility Study." JMIR biomedical engineering 8 (2023): e40433.
New Wearable Device May Help Disrupt Parkinson’s Tremors Through Subtle Neural “Reset”
A recently published pilot study in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience offers fresh evidence that a small, wearable device applying gentle vibrations to the wrists and ankles could provide a promising approach to managing Parkinson’s-related tremors. Developed by researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, the device uses carefully tuned vibrotactile stimulation—patterns of subtle, low-level vibrations—aimed at temporarily reducing the abnormal brain activity that underlies Parkinson’s motor symptoms.
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells, leading to disturbances in how brain circuits coordinate movement. These disruptions result in symptoms like resting tremor, often due to excessive and synchronised firing of neurones in the areas of the brain that govern movement. Current therapies—such as medications or deep-brain stimulation—target these faulty signals, yet they can be limited by side effects, surgical requirements, or the complexities of medication management.
What makes this wearable device notable is its non-invasive strategy to interfere with these synchronised neuronal signals. By sending carefully patterned or continuously low-level vibrations through the skin, the device may subtly alter sensory feedback pathways and disrupt the abnormal rhythms in the brain’s motor regions. In essence, it introduces a gentle background “noise” that helps break up the problematic patterns of synchronised brain activity. In the study, both stronger “patterned” and softer “continuous” vibration approaches safely and reliably reduced tremor severity for short periods.
While the improvements were moderate, this early evidence is significant. Non-invasive vibrotactile therapy could one day become a user-friendly addition to standard care—an option that individuals could wear during daily activities, with minimal side effects, to temporarily calm tremors. Further research will determine how well these vibrations work over longer periods, and whether certain patterns or frequencies best restore healthier brain signalling. If these initial findings prove robust, such technology may offer people in the early stages of neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s a more direct way to influence their condition, helping them feel more in control while scientists continue advancing treatment possibilities.
Tabacof, Laura, et al. "Safety and tolerability of a wearable, vibrotactile stimulation device for Parkinson’s disease." Frontiers in Human Neuroscience 15 (2021): 712621.
Study Suggests 40 Hz Vibroacoustic Therapy May Reduce Parkinson’s Motor Symptoms
A study published in the journal Healthcare suggests that a targeted, low-frequency vibration therapy—known as physioacoustic therapy—could help alleviate key motor symptoms in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Parkinson’s is characterised by progressive neurodegeneration, leading to tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement (bradykinesia). While medications remain central to treatment, their effectiveness can wane over time, prompting interest in approaches that address the underlying neurological disruptions.
In this double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, participants with PD sat three times a week in specialised chairs designed to deliver consistent 40-Hz vibrations throughout the body. Researchers measured changes in motor symptoms using the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS-III). After 12 weeks, those receiving genuine 40-Hz vibrations showed meaningful improvements—reducing tremors, easing limb rigidity, and improving the fluidity of fine hand movements—compared to those who received only a simulated vibrational sound.
These benefits may be related to how the brain’s motor circuits process rhythmic sensory signals. Earlier scientific work has indicated that abnormal, synchronised oscillations in the basal ganglia and related regions contribute to PD’s classic symptoms. Applying a steady, external 40-Hz stimulus could potentially disrupt these pathological neural patterns and support healthier dopamine signalling. Although the precise mechanism remains under investigation, the evidence suggests that rhythmic vibration may encourage more normal brain activity and possibly aid in maintaining neuronal health over time.
For those in the early stages of PD, these findings underscore the potential value of scientifically grounded, non-invasive therapies that can complement standard care. As research progresses, optimising vibration frequency, session duration, and individualised settings may help preserve mobility, independence, and quality of life. If you are exploring new treatment avenues, discussing the latest evidence with your healthcare professional may reveal additional strategies to actively manage the progression of Parkinson’s disease.
Mosabbir, Abdullah, Quincy J. Almeida, and Heidi Ahonen. "The effects of long-term 40-Hz physioacoustic vibrations on motor impairments in Parkinson’s disease: a double-blinded randomized control trial." Healthcare. Vol. 8. No. 2. MDPI, 2020.
Biomarker Tracking
Wrist-Worn Tech Empowers People with Parkinson’s to Take Control of Their Day
A study published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease has offered a powerful glimpse into how people living with early-stage neurodegenerative conditions – such as Parkinson’s – might gain more control over their symptoms. By using a wearable device that continuously monitors movement throughout the day, researchers in Australia have successfully created a system that can objectively measure both the slowing of movement (known as bradykinesia) and the uncontrollable, excessive movement (dyskinesia) often associated with long-term Parkinson’s therapy.
Unlike traditional clinical examinations, which can feel rushed and rely on what doctors see during short appointments, this new technology collects detailed data over ten full days. It considers the natural ups and downs that occur as people go about their daily lives. Worn like a wristwatch, the device records subtle changes in acceleration and muscle activity. From these measurements, doctors and patients alike can gain a clearer understanding of when symptoms are well-managed and when treatments may need adjusting. As a result, individuals can time their medication more accurately, potentially reducing symptom “off” times and side effects.
For someone facing early-stage neurodegenerative challenges, the message is one of hope and empowerment. By working with healthcare professionals, you could help fine-tune your daily treatment plan using personalised data, rather than guesswork. This could mean more confident steps through your home, greater ease in doing day-to-day tasks, and, ultimately, more control over how quickly your condition progresses. While there is still no cure for Parkinson’s, these scientific advances mean you are not merely a passenger. You can act, learn, and guide your care team towards decisions that keep you active, independent, and feeling more in charge of your future.
Griffiths, Robert I., et al. "Automated assessment of bradykinesia and dyskinesia in Parkinson's disease." Journal of Parkinson's disease 2.1 (2012): 47-55.
Smart Wearables Offer New Hope in Slowing Early Parkinson’s Changes
Scientists have revealed that digital health technologies, like wearable sensors on wrists and feet, can measure subtle changes in Parkinson’s disease progression more accurately than traditional clinical assessments. Published in Communications Medicine, this new study could help those with early-stage Parkinson’s gain a more precise understanding of how their symptoms evolve—and, importantly, empower them to take action earlier.
Parkinson’s disease is often tricky to measure, especially in its earliest stages. Traditional clinical scales sometimes miss the subtle differences in movement that can signal disease progression. In this recent work, researchers tested wearable, sensor-based devices on people with newly diagnosed, untreated Parkinson’s disease. The sensors picked up tiny changes in movement—like slower or smaller motions—long before standard clinical tools did. This means doctors and patients alike may be able to see meaningful changes sooner and adjust care or lifestyles more effectively.
For those living with Parkinson’s or other early neurodegenerative disorders, this research is a reminder that knowledge is power. The use of wearable sensors could help you track day-to-day patterns of movement, exercise more confidently, or spot early warning signs that a medication or activity plan needs changing. Such insights can also help guide future treatments designed to slow the disease rather than simply manage its symptoms. By taking advantage of these new technologies, people can work hand in hand with their healthcare teams, strengthening their role as active participants in their own care.
Ultimately, the researchers hope that more sensitive digital measurements will encourage faster development of new therapies that slow or even halt the disease’s march. It’s an uplifting message for anyone facing the challenges of early-stage Parkinson’s: small changes can be picked up earlier, giving you and your doctors a stronger fighting chance to intervene, improve well-being, and maintain independence for longer.
Czech, Matthew D., et al. "Improved measurement of disease progression in people living with early Parkinson’s disease using digital health technologies." Communications Medicine 4.1 (2024): 49.
Wearable Sensors: A Quiet Revolution in Slowing Parkinson’s Progression
A review published in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience is offering hope and insight for those living with early-stage Parkinson’s disease (PD) and other neurodegenerative conditions. The research, conducted by a team at The BioRobotics Institute of Italy’s Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, reveals how wearable technology, such as discreet sensors placed on the body, can both sharpen diagnosis and assist in daily management of Parkinson’s symptoms. More importantly, it highlights tools that could empower individuals to take greater control over their condition, potentially helping to slow down its progression.
These wearable sensors—small, comfortable devices that can track your movement, posture, and tremors—are already reshaping the way doctors and patients understand PD. Instead of relying solely on intermittent clinical observations, sensors continuously monitor your gait, balance, and limb coordination in real-life settings. The authors of the review examined over a decade’s worth of studies, finding that the sensors can detect subtle changes that might precede a noticeable worsening of symptoms. Early warning means earlier interventions and the possibility of adjusting treatments—be it medication, exercise regimes, or other therapies—before significant decline occurs.
For anyone facing the uncertainty of a progressive condition, knowledge is power. Knowing precisely how your body moves and changes during the course of the day can help you and your healthcare team make informed decisions. Tracking improvements and setbacks with accurate, objective data can illuminate which exercises or activities are most beneficial. It can guide you to stand taller, move more fluidly, and maintain independence longer.
Although there is still work to be done, these findings are a reminder that science is steadily developing new tools. By embracing wearable sensor technology, those living with Parkinson’s and related disorders can become active participants in their own care, making the journey ahead brighter and more hopeful.
Rovini, Erika, Carlo Maremmani, and Filippo Cavallo. "How wearable sensors can support Parkinson's disease diagnosis and treatment: a systematic review." Frontiers in neuroscience 11 (2017): 555.
Wearable Sensors Paint a Vivid Picture of Parkinson’s Symptoms in Daily Life
A new real-world study published in npj Parkinson’s Disease offers fresh, science-based insights into how individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) experience movement symptoms as they go about their everyday routines. The work, led by researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center, used wearable accelerometer-based sensors placed on participants’ trunk, arms, and legs to capture subtle changes in activity and tremor patterns not easily seen during a brief clinical exam.
Wearable sensor studies of Parkinson’s have historically been conducted in laboratory or clinical settings, where patients’ movements are recorded for a limited time and under carefully controlled conditions. This approach often misses the naturally fluctuating nature of PD symptoms. By contrast, in this study, individuals wore the sensors continuously for about two days at home. Scientists recorded hours of real-world gait patterns, tremors, and daily activities—everything from sitting and standing to lying down and walking.
The results were revealing. Individuals with Parkinson’s disease took fewer steps per day compared to controls without the condition, confirming that PD reduces overall mobility. More strikingly, the researchers could precisely quantify how long each participant experienced tremor while at home—often hours each day. Tremor intensity and frequency varied, and emerged most often during activities such as sitting quietly. In some cases, even limbs not clearly affected during short clinical exams demonstrated periods of tremor during everyday life.
This real-world, scientifically grounded insight empowers patients and physicians. Clinicians can now rely on objective, long-term data on patient mobility and tremor, potentially leading to more personalized interventions. Patients, for their part, gain a clearer understanding of how their activity and rest patterns relate to symptom fluctuations, opening up possibilities for adjusting their daily routines, medication schedules, or exercise programs.
While further research with larger cohorts and longer monitoring periods is needed, these findings highlight the power of wearable sensors to move beyond the clinic walls. Such an approach provides an unprecedented window into the “lived experience” of Parkinson’s, guiding more targeted treatments and inspiring hope in the quest to slow disease progression and enhance quality of life.
Adams, Jamie L., et al. "A real-world study of wearable sensors in Parkinson’s disease." npj Parkinson's Disease 7.1 (2021): 106.
Sleep
Study Shows Sleep Boosts Brain's Waste Clearance, Offering Hope for Early Neurodegenerative Disorders
A study published in Science suggests that sleep plays a much more active role in keeping our brains healthy than scientists once thought. Researchers found that when we sleep, our brains actually become better at clearing out harmful waste substances, including those associated with diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. For people in the early stages of neurodegenerative disorders, this research offers a reassuring perspective: good sleep is more than just a time to rest—it’s a time when the brain’s own “clean-up crew” swings into high gear.
During sleep, the channels surrounding blood vessels in the brain widen, allowing more fluid from around the brain and spinal cord to wash through. This fluid flow helps carry away toxic proteins, such as beta-amyloid, which can build up over time and contribute to problems in memory and thinking. The researchers found that even short periods of sleep or anesthesia were associated with a significant boost in this waste-clearing system. In contrast, when the mice in the study were awake, their brain spaces were narrower, meaning that less fluid could move in and fewer toxins were flushed out.
For individuals facing early neurodegenerative changes, these findings underline the value of prioritizing healthy sleep habits. It’s not just that restful nights help us feel alert and focused the next day; they may also help slow the buildup of harmful substances that worsen brain health over time. While more studies are needed to translate these findings directly into treatments, taking steps to improve sleep quality and duration could prove to be an important piece of the puzzle in preserving brain function—and it’s something that you and your healthcare team can work on right now.
Xie L, Kang H, Xu Q, Chen MJ, Liao Y, Thiyagarajan M, O’Donnell J, Christensen DJ, Nicholson C, Iliff JJ, Takano T. Sleep drives metabolite clearance from the adult brain. Science. (2013)
Sleep: A New Weapon Against Neurodegeneration?
A study published in the Archives of Molecular Biology and Genetics has shed new light on the crucial link between sleep, cellular waste clearance, and neurodegenerative diseases. The research suggests that sleep may be a powerful tool in the fight against conditions like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and frontotemporal dementia.
Scientists have long known that sleep deprivation has harmful effects on the brain. This study delves deeper, exploring the intricate mechanisms connecting sleep to a process called autophagy. Autophagy is like the brain's internal cleaning crew, clearing out damaged components and proteins that accumulate as we age. Think of it as taking out the trash – essential for keeping your brain cells healthy and functioning.
The study reveals that sleep disruption can hinder this cleaning process, leading to a buildup of toxic waste in the brain. Imagine your trash piling up because the garbage truck doesn't arrive! This accumulation of cellular debris can contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
But there's good news! The study also suggests that getting enough quality sleep can boost autophagy, helping your brain clear out harmful waste products. This means that prioritizing sleep could be a key strategy for protecting your brain health and potentially slowing the progression of neurodegenerative disorders.
The research highlights the importance of a molecule called melatonin, often used to treat sleep problems. Melatonin also appears to play a role in regulating autophagy, further strengthening the connection between sleep and brain health.
This study offers hope for those living with early-stage neurodegenerative disorders. While more research is needed, the findings suggest that prioritizing sleep and maintaining a healthy sleep cycle could be a crucial part of managing these conditions.
What does this mean for you?
If you have an early-stage neurodegenerative disorder, find ways to improve your sleep quality. This might include establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensuring a comfortable sleep environment.
Remember, prioritizing sleep is an investment in your brain health. So make sure you're getting enough shut-eye – your brain will thank you!
Deutsch S, Malik BR. “Impact of Sleep on Autophagy and Neurodegenerative Disease: Sleeping Your Mind Clear.” Archives of Molecular Biology and Genetics. 2022 Mar 28;1(2):43-56.
Sleep’s Vital Role in Brain Health: Study Sheds Light for Early-Stage Neurodegenerative Disorders
A study from Oslo University Hospital has uncovered how just one night of no sleep can affect the brain’s ability to remove harmful proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. These findings are particularly important for individuals in the early stages of these conditions, highlighting the crucial role of quality sleep in managing their health.
The research examined how sleep deprivation influences specific indicators in the blood that signal brain health. Participants were split into two groups: one group stayed awake all night, while the other group slept normally. The researchers measured levels of certain proteins in the blood the morning after, including amyloid-beta (Aβ40 and Aβ42) and tau proteins, which are known to build up in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease.
The study found that participants who did not sleep showed a significant decrease in Aβ40 and Aβ42 levels. These proteins are typically cleared from the brain during sleep, and their accumulation is linked to the development of Alzheimer’s plaques. Additionally, the levels of tau proteins increased in the sleep-deprived group. Tau proteins, when abnormal, form tangles that disrupt brain function and are another hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
These changes suggest that even a single night without sleep can hinder the brain’s natural cleaning processes. For those with early-stage neurodegenerative disorders, maintaining regular and restful sleep may help the brain eliminate these toxic proteins more effectively, potentially slowing the progression of the disease.
The research also explored how sleep affects the brain’s waste removal systems. In the group that slept, efficient clearance of amyloid-beta proteins was linked to better functioning of the brain’s lymphatic system—a network that helps drain waste from the brain. However, in the sleep-deprived group, this relationship was disrupted. Furthermore, impaired function of another waste clearance system, known as the glymphatic system, was associated with higher levels of tau proteins after sleep deprivation.
These insights emphasize that sleep is not merely a period of rest, but a critical time when the brain actively cleanses itself of harmful substances. For individuals managing early neurodegenerative conditions, prioritizing good sleep habits could be a simple yet powerful strategy to support brain health and reduce the buildup of damaging proteins.
As research continues to seek effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, understanding the importance of sleep offers a promising avenue for managing and potentially mitigating the effects of these conditions. Ensuring adequate and quality sleep may become an essential component of comprehensive care for those affected.
Per Kristian Eide, Aslan Lashkarivand, Are Hugo Pripp, Lars Magnus Valnes, Markus Hovd, Geir Ringstad, Kaj Blennow, Henrik Zetterberg, “Mechanisms behind changes of neurodegeneration biomarkers in plasma induced by sleep deprivation”, Brain Communications, Volume 5, Issue 6, (2023).
Nutrition
Fuel Your Mind: How the MIND Diet Can Slow Neurodegeneration
The MIND Diet’s Holds Promise for Slowing Early Neurodegeneration
A growing body of scientific evidence suggests that a specific dietary pattern known as the MIND diet—short for the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay—may offer valuable support for those in the early stages of conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. While no single diet can cure these disorders, researchers are increasingly optimistic that embracing MIND-inspired eating could help slow the progression of cognitive decline and foster better brain health over time.
What Is the MIND Diet?
Developed by nutrition and medical researchers at Rush University in Chicago, the MIND diet blends features of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, two well-studied approaches long recommended for cardiovascular health. The MIND diet zeroes in on the foods with the strongest links to maintaining brain function: leafy green vegetables, berries, whole grains, olive oil, nuts, beans, poultry, fish, and a moderate amount of wine. Studies have found that adhering closely to the MIND diet may slow cognitive aging by the equivalent of about 7.5 years, giving individuals more time to maintain memory, focus, and independence.
What Makes the MIND Diet Special?
The MIND diet specifically emphasises foods with proven brain-boosting benefits:
Leafy green vegetables: Abundant in vitamin E and folate, crucial for brain cell function and protection against damage. Aim for at least six servings per week. Kale, spinach, and collard greens are all excellent choices.
Berries: Rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which combat oxidative stress, a major contributor to neurodegeneration. Enjoy at least two servings a week. Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with these beneficial compounds.
Nuts: A fantastic source of healthy fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants. Include five servings per week. Almonds, walnuts, and cashews are all great options.
Olive oil: The primary fat source in the MIND diet, olive oil is brimming with monounsaturated fats, linked to improved cognitive function. Use it generously in cooking and dressings.
Whole grains: Provide fibre and essential nutrients, supporting overall brain health. Choose wholemeal bread, brown rice, and oats over their refined counterparts.
Fish: Provides omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA, a vital component of brain cell membranes. Aim for one serving per week. Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are good sources.
Beans: A valuable source of protein and fibre, contributing to overall health and potentially slowing cognitive decline. Include a variety of beans in your meals.
The MIND diet also recommends limiting red meat, butter, cheese, pastries, sweets, and fried foods.
The Science Behind It for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's
Studies suggest that the MIND diet can:
Reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases: Research indicates that closely following the MIND diet may lower the risk of developing both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Slow cognitive decline: This is crucial for both conditions, as cognitive changes are common. Studies show that even moderate adherence to the MIND diet can have a significant positive impact on cognitive function.
Protect against brain changes: The MIND diet has been linked to reduced brain atrophy and fewer harmful protein deposits in the brain, hallmarks of both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
How Might it Slow Disease Progression?
Although most studies have focused on Alzheimer’s disease, there is mounting evidence that the nutrients emphasized in the MIND diet—antioxidants, healthy fats, and plant-based proteins—support overall brain health in ways that may also benefit those with Parkinson’s. Preliminary research has suggested that the diet’s inflammation-fighting foods may protect neurons, improve the function of brain cells, and potentially reduce oxidative stress, a key factor implicated in both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. While these findings are still evolving, they point to the powerful role of nutrition in influencing the trajectory of neurodegenerative disorders.
While research is ongoing, here are some potential mechanisms:
Combating oxidative stress: The abundance of antioxidants in the MIND diet helps neutralise harmful free radicals, protecting brain cells from damage.
Reducing inflammation: Chronic inflammation is implicated in both conditions. The MIND diet's focus on fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats may help dampen inflammation in the brain.
Improving mitochondrial function: The brain relies heavily on mitochondria for energy. The MIND diet supports mitochondrial health, potentially boosting brain cell function and resilience.
What Does This Mean for You?
For anyone living with early-stage Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, this research offers a source of hope and practical action. By making simple, gradual changes to your daily meals—adding a handful of berries to breakfast, swapping refined grains for whole grains, enjoying a leafy green salad at dinner—you’re not just improving your diet; you’re taking a proactive step toward protecting your brain. This isn’t about perfection or overnight change. Even moderate adherence to the MIND diet has shown measurable benefits in research studies.
It’s important to remember that diet is only one piece of the puzzle. Exercise, engaging your mind in challenging activities, getting enough sleep, and following medical recommendations are all crucial. But your fork can indeed be a powerful ally. By choosing MIND-friendly foods, you’re actively fighting back against neurodegeneration, potentially slowing its progress and giving yourself the best possible chance to preserve and nurture your cognitive health. It’s an empowering, science-backed approach that allows you to be part of your own treatment team—making a meaningful difference meal by meal.
Remember:
Every bit counts: Even moderate adherence to the MIND diet can make a difference.
Start small: Gradually incorporate MIND diet principles into your lifestyle.
Variety is key: Enjoy a diverse range of brain-healthy foods.
Consult a healthcare professional: If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication, seek personalised advice from your doctor or a registered dietitian.
By making conscious food choices, you have the power to positively influence your brain health and potentially improve your quality of life.
A Way to Slow Neurodegeneration? Study Suggests Brain-Friendly MIND Diet May Help
Imagine being able to take charge of your brain health simply by adjusting what you eat. A publication from the Rush Memory and Aging Project gives hopeful news for older adults and people in the early stages of neurodegenerative disorders, such as those with Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s. According to the study, a dietary pattern known as the MIND diet—short for Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay—may reduce the risk and slow the progression of neurodegeneration.
Parkinsonian signs include slower movement, stiffness, and shakiness—changes that can limit independence and quality of life. Traditionally, few treatments are known to slow these symptoms. However, this new research suggests that there may be something you can do today: improve your diet.
How does the MIND diet work? It emphasizes leafy green vegetables, berries, nuts, whole grains, and lean proteins like fish and poultry. Importantly, it limits red meat, butter, sweets, and fried foods. These food choices provide the nutrients and antioxidants that help protect the brain against the damaging processes often linked to neurodegeneration.
In the study, people who closely followed the MIND diet experienced a lower likelihood of developing Parkinsonian signs and, if signs did appear, they seemed to progress more slowly than in those who didn’t follow the diet. While the researchers stress that more studies are needed, their findings are an encouraging step in managing brain health.
For someone in the early stages of a neurodegenerative condition, this research brings an empowering message: you are not helpless. Simple changes—like adding a handful of blueberries to your breakfast, swapping in spinach salads for heavier meals, or choosing whole grains—may help you maintain mobility and independence longer. Although there is no magic cure yet, the MIND diet offers a way to take action now, potentially slowing the clock on neurodegeneration and giving you more control over your future.
Agarwal, Puja, et al. "MIND diet associated with reduced incidence and delayed progression of Parkinsonism in old age." The Journal of nutrition, health and aging 22.10 (2018): 1211-1215.
Research Reveals That a Simple Diet Can Slow Neurodegeneration
A study published by a team of researchers at Rush University Medical Center and Harvard School of Public Health offers new hope for individuals living with early-stage memory and thinking problems. The study highlights a pattern of eating known as the “MIND diet”—a blend of the Mediterranean and DASH diets—that may help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of neurodegenerative decline.
This finding could be a game-changer. If you’ve noticed subtle challenges with memory, focus, or decision-making, the MIND diet suggests that you can take back some control over how your brain ages. Unlike many recommendations that demand drastic overhauls, the MIND diet focuses on adding more leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains, and a little fish, while cutting back on red meats, sweets, and processed foods. In fact, the study found that even following this diet moderately was associated with a substantially lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease—offering a sense of empowerment and optimism for those who feel overwhelmed by their diagnosis.
The research followed over 900 older adults for several years, evaluating their eating patterns and cognitive health. Importantly, the MIND diet showed protective benefits at both “strict” and “moderate” levels of adherence. In other words, you don’t have to be perfect. Incorporating small, manageable changes—such as choosing whole grain bread instead of white, or adding a handful of blueberries to your morning yogurt—can make a difference.
For someone facing early-stage neurodegenerative issues, these findings underscore a hopeful message: you can still play a meaningful role in shaping your future health. Simple steps like cooking with olive oil, enjoying a plate of dark leafy greens, or planning a meal that includes fish once a week, may support your brain’s resilience. While no single approach can guarantee prevention or cure, this study provides a bright spot of evidence-based guidance that your day-to-day choices might slow the progression of memory loss and give you more quality time to do what matters most.
Morris, Martha Clare, et al. "MIND diet associated with reduced incidence of Alzheimer's disease." Alzheimer's & Dementia 11.9 (2015): 1007-1014.
Exercise
High-Intensity Exercise Shows Promise in Slowing Parkinson’s Brain Changes
A groundbreaking new study published in npj Parkinson’s Disease offers a hopeful message for those living with early-stage Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative disorders: you may have more power than you realize to help slow down the progression of your condition. The research team, led by Bart de Laat at Yale University, found that six months of high-intensity exercise training not only improved the health of brain cells but also appeared to reverse some expected declines in key chemical markers associated with Parkinson’s.
The study focused on people with mild, early-stage Parkinson’s disease. Typically, as the disease progresses, dopamine levels in certain areas of the brain gradually decrease—this leads to problems with movement, coordination, and everyday tasks. Dopamine transporters, which help control the flow of this critical brain chemical, tend to drop over time. Likewise, neuromelanin, a pigment that helps protect brain cells from damage, usually diminishes. But after participants engaged in high-intensity workouts for six months, researchers saw something remarkable: these protective signals actually went up, suggesting that the brain’s cells were not only surviving better, but might also be functioning more efficiently.
The image above shows dopamine transporter levels pre- and post-exercise, demonstrating a significant improvement/reversal after participating in regular exercise over 6 months.
This is especially encouraging because it shows that we are not merely bystanders to what’s happening in our brains. While medication and professional care remain essential, this study highlights that the right kind of exercise—sustained, challenging physical activity that pushes the heart rate upward—may create a healthier environment inside the brain. If you’re living with a neurodegenerative disorder and are able to do so safely, it may be worth exploring a doctor-approved fitness program or working with a physical therapist who can guide you through workouts tailored to your abilities. Even if you start small, activities that steadily build intensity, such as brisk walking, cycling, or supervised interval training, could pay off over time.
In a world where neurodegenerative illnesses often feel like a slow, unstoppable force, this study provides a different perspective. You do have some influence over the course of your disease. By committing to regular, well-structured exercise, you may help preserve your brain’s vital networks for longer, enhancing your quality of life and maintaining independence. It’s a reminder that your actions matter—and that hope, combined with hard work, can be a powerful tool in the fight against neurodegeneration.
de Laat, B., Hoye, J., Stanley, G. et al. Intense exercise increases dopamine transporter and neuromelanin concentrations in the substantia nigra in Parkinson’s disease. npj Parkinsons Dis. 10, 34 (2024)
Intensive Exercise May Slow Down Parkinson’s Progression
A publication in Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair offers an encouraging message for people newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD), a common neurodegenerative disorder. The study, led by Dr. Giuseppe Frazzitta, provides evidence that carefully structured exercise programs can slow the progression of neurodegeneration, as well as improve day-to-day movement.
This finding is especially meaningful for those in the early stages of neurodegenerative disorders, when many people are just beginning to notice changes in their ability to perform everyday tasks. Traditionally, medication has been the cornerstone of treatment. While drugs can help manage symptoms, the idea that physical therapy might bolster the brain’s resilience marks a significant shift. In this study, participants who underwent a one-month intensive exercise program, repeated annually, experienced better motor functioning even after two years—and importantly, they needed fewer increases in their medication compared to those who did not participate in the exercise program.
The image above is one of the most striking results we have seen in terms of the impact of exercise. The lines in the graphs represent the amount of L-dopa taken across two patient groups. One group participated in the stuctured exercise program (black solid line), the other did not (dashed line). Over time, the L-dopa dose stayed fairly constant for the exercise group, where the other group needed to have their dose increased over the 2-yer time period.
For someone living with early PD, these results highlight the fact that you are not powerless in the face of disease. Engaging in regular, targeted exercise and seeking out a multidisciplinary rehabilitation team may strengthen your body’s natural ability to adapt, reducing the rate of decline and helping maintain independence longer. The approach might include walking on a treadmill with visual or musical cues, stretching to keep joints flexible, and working closely with therapists to learn new strategies for daily activities—all designed to reset your "movement clock" and encourage healthier brain connections.
Perhaps most inspiring is the study’s suggestion that your actions—sticking to a structured exercise regimen, staying engaged with therapy, and challenging yourself physically—may provide a kind of “neuroprotective” benefit. Early, proactive steps could translate to more years of better movement, fewer changes to your medication, and greater control over your life. In a world where Parkinson’s can sometimes feel like a slow surrender, this research sends a powerful message: you may have the ability to influence your journey, one determined step at a time.
Frazzitta, Giuseppe, et al. "Intensive rehabilitation treatment in early Parkinson’s disease: a randomized pilot study with a 2-year follow-up." Neurorehabilitation and neural repair 29.2 (2015): 123-131.
Dancing to Defy Parkinson’s
A study published in the Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine brings uplifting news to people with Parkinson’s disease (PD): dancing—particularly the Argentine tango—may play a crucial role in improving balance, mobility, and day-to-day functioning. While medication remains a cornerstone of Parkinson’s treatment, helping to ease stiffness, tremors, and other hallmark symptoms, these findings suggest that dance could be a valuable, non-medical companion therapy. For those in the early stages of a neurodegenerative disorder, this research sends an inspiring message: there are active steps one can take to support overall well-being, beyond relying solely on pills and prescriptions.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine compared how different forms of partner dance—Argentine tango and a combination of waltz/foxtrot—affected people with mild-to-moderate PD over a 13-week period. The participants attended hour-long dance classes twice a week, while a control group did not dance at all. Both dance groups showed noticeable improvements in balance, walking distance, and backward stepping—areas of function that medications often only partially address. Impressively, the tango dancers experienced the greatest gains, hinting that the rhythm and improvisation of tango may stimulate the brain’s motor control systems in ways drugs cannot fully replicate.
While medications often provide essential relief and remain a critical part of therapy, they do not always solve problems like poor posture, reduced balance confidence, and fall risk—areas that dance-based exercise can target. The good news is that this does not have to be an “either-or” scenario. Instead, dancing can complement medication, working alongside treatment regimens to potentially slow the progression of certain symptoms and enhance quality of life.
This research offers encouragement and a practical takeaway: engaging in movement-based activities can help reclaim a sense of control, complementing medications to better manage Parkinson’s symptoms. By joining a dance class or exploring a new form of exercise, individuals can become active participants in their own care. Rather than feeling confined by a diagnosis, they can step out—quite literally—onto the dance floor and seize the opportunity to shape a stronger future.
Hackney, Madeleine E., and Gammon M. Earhart. "Effects of dance on movement control in Parkinson’s disease: a comparison of Argentine tango and American ballroom." Journal of rehabilitation medicine: official journal of the UEMS European Board of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine 41.6 (2009): 475.