Medical professionals have long observed an intriguing phenomenon: instances of cancer and Alzheimer's disease appearing together in the same individual are notably rare. This observation, once regarded as merely anecdotal, has gained statistical support. A 2020 analysis involving data from 9.6 million patients revealed that a cancer diagnosis correlated with an 11% decrease in the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease. Research conducted on mice by scientists at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in China indicates that a specific protein known as cystatin C, which is generated by cancer cells, may play a pivotal role in this relationship. In the case of Alzheimer's disease, the brain accumulates harmful clumps of misfolded proteins that damage neurons. Cystatin C has the ability to penetrate the brain and disrupt neurodegenerative processes by dismantling these detrimental aggregates. Additionally, this protein appears to stimulate immune cells within the brain, encouraging them to effectively "clear away the debris." In experiments with mice, this not only led to a reduction in the typical plaques associated with Alzheimer's but also enhanced cognitive function. Previously, it was believed that activating such a protective response was exceedingly challenging. It is crucial to clarify that this does not imply that cancer serves as a protective factor against Alzheimer's. All current findings are based solely on animal research, and caution is necessary when considering their implications for humans. Nonetheless, the concept that certain harmful processes within the body might inhibit others is quite remarkable.
Informational material. 18+.
