Hormonal Basis of Alzheimer’s Disease Explored

Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) are involved in longevity and some evidence suggests their benefits in cognition – particularly  Alzheimer’s Disease, where experimental studies have shown that IGF-1 opposes the main pathological processes of the condition.  In a multicentric cross-sectional study, Emmanuelle Duron, from Broca Hospital (France), and colleagues measured IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 serum levels in 694 elderly subjects (218 men and 476 women). Of the study participants, 481 had memory complaints and were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment. The researchers found that IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 serum levels were significantly associated with cognitive status in men, but not in women.