LIVER dysfunction and Alzheimer’s disease may be more closely related than previously thought, according to new research demonstrating early Alzheimer’s-like changes in the brains of rats with chronic liver disease.
In a study using a bile duct ligation model to induce liver injury, scientists found abnormal accumulations of amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau proteins, hallmarks of Alzheimer’s pathology, within brain tissue. These findings strengthen the emerging view that liver disease contributes to cognitive decline and may accelerate neurodegeneration.
Brain Changes Reflect Early Alzheimer’s Disease
Researchers employed histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques to identify amyloid-β deposits and tau aggregates, both characteristic of early Alzheimer’s disease. The study also revealed disruptions in aquaporin water channels and elevated levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), indicating astrocyte activation and neuroinflammation.
Peripheral blood analysis mirrored these central changes, showing altered concentrations of neurodegeneration biomarkers such as neurofilament light chain (NfL), phosphorylated tau (p-tau), total tau (t-tau), GFAP, and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG). These systemic alterations suggest a strong brain–liver axis contributing to disease progression.
“Our findings emphasize liver failure as a significant factor in cognitive decline and increased Alzheimer’s disease risk,” the researchers concluded, recommending that liver function screening be incorporated into dementia assessments.
Implications for Dementia Diagnosis
While the study was conducted in animal models, its implications for human health are significant. Chronic liver dysfunction may act as a precursor to neurodegenerative disease through systemic inflammation and disrupted protein clearance.
However, it remains uncertain whether the findings will apply to people. Experts suggest that future research is needed to determine whether early detection and treatment of liver dysfunction could delay or prevent the onset of dementia.
Reference
Braissant O. et al. Liver dysfunction triggers early Alzheimer’s pathology in an adult rat model of chronic liver disease. Sci Rep. 2025;DOI:10.1038/s41598-025-21054-x.
