A Cambridge-led study linked disrupted cerebrospinal fluid movement to a higher dementia risk, suggesting a biological link between sleep, heart health, and brain waste removal.

Researchers have found that impaired movement of the brain’s cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which helps clear waste, could explain why poor sleep and certain heart conditions increase the risk of dementia, PTI reported.

The study, led by scientists at the University of Cambridge and partner institutions in the UK, highlights the role of the glymphatic system — a pathway that uses CSF to remove metabolic waste from the brain. CSF also cushions the central nervous system and delivers nutrients.

Disruption of the glymphatic system can lead to the accumulation of toxic substances like amyloid proteins, according to the researchers. These proteins are known to clump together and form plaques, a characteristic seen in Alzheimer’s disease and other common forms of dementia.

The findings suggest a possible biological link between sleep quality, cardiovascular health, and the development of neurodegenerative conditions, the study noted.

Source: Outlook India