Study of Alpha-Linolenic Acid Nutrition to Improve Cognition and Brain Blood Vessel Health in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment and APOE4 Gene

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effects of alpha-linolenic acid ALA supplementation on brain function and vascular health in older adults aged 60 and above with mild cognitive impairment MCI who carry the APOE4 gene. This pilot randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial aims to improve cognitive outcomes by enhancing the bodys production of docosahexaenoic acid DHA from ALA, potentially supporting blood-brain barrier BBB integrity and brain vascular health in this high-risk group. The study addresses the limitations of direct DHA supplementation and highlights a need for safer, cost-effective therapies for dementia risk reduction. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either 2.6 grams of ALA daily via flaxseed oil or an identical placebo of corn oil, both provided in 5 mL oral syringes taken each morning with food for six months. The study will compare cognitive function, BBB permeability, cerebral blood flow, brain vascular reactivity, and blood biomarkers related to BBB integrity and Alzheimers disease processes between the groups. The design includes secondary assessments of episodic memory, executive function, and brain imaging measures. During the study, participants will undergo evaluations at the beginning and end of the six-month period, including cognitive testing, MRI scans to assess BBB and vascular health, and blood tests for fatty acid levels and biomarkers. Participants will also have a study partner to provide information about daily functioning. The trial includes monitoring for safety and adherence, with the goal of establishing groundwork for larger trials assessing ALAs potential to protect brain health in APOE4 carriers at risk for Alzheimers dementia.

ALA-enriched Nutrition for Prevention of Cognitive Decline in APOE4 Older Adults