Insulin resistance and impaired lipid metabolism as a potential link between diabetes and Alzheimer's disease

Drug Dev Res. 2020 Apr;81(2):194-205. doi: 10.1002/ddr.21643. Epub 2020 Feb 5.

Abstract

Diabetes disrupts organs throughout the body including the brain. Evidence suggests diabetes is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD) and neurodegeneration. In this review, we focus on understanding how diabetes contributes to the progression of neurodegeneration by influencing several aspects of the disease process. We emphasize the potential roles of brain insulin resistance, as well as cholesterol and lipid disruption, as factors which worsen AD.

Keywords: Alzheimer's; cholesterol; diabetes; insulin resistance; oxidized lipids.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / etiology*
  • Alzheimer Disease / metabolism
  • Diabetes Complications / metabolism
  • Diabetes Complications / psychology*
  • Diabetes Mellitus / metabolism*
  • Disease Progression
  • Humans
  • Insulin Resistance
  • Lipid Metabolism