Lower 'Bad' Cholesterol and Elevated Lipid Markers Associated with Reduced Alzheimer’s Risk

Recent research conducted by the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio has found intriguing links between blood lipid levels and the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia worldwide. The study suggests that individuals with lower levels of 'bad' cholesterol, specifically small dense LDL particles, and higher levels of specific blood transport markers for fats may have a decreased likelihood of developing Alzheimer's.

The groundbreaking findings are based on an analysis of over 800 older adults from the long-term Framingham Heart Study. Researchers observed that higher concentrations of small dense LDL cholesterol (sdLDL-C), which are known to promote artery-clogging plaque formation and are associated with cardiovascular diseases, correlated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s. Conversely, higher levels of ApoB48, a lipoprotein involved in transporting dietary fats from the gut into circulation, were linked to a lower risk of the disease.

Interestingly, the study also found that individuals with the lowest levels of HDL cholesterol—often termed 'good' cholesterol due to its protective role in heart health—also showed a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to those with higher HDL levels. These complex relationships highlight that blood lipids might play diverse roles in brain health, separate from their effects on cardiovascular health.

The research underscores the potential of using blood lipid profiles for Alzheimer’s risk assessment and points toward future strategies in dementia prevention that involve modifying lipid metabolism. The study was published in the journal Neurology and involved collaboration among multiple research institutions, including Boston University and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

As dementia remains a leading health concern with millions affected globally—and with projections indicating a sharp rise in cases—understanding the role of blood lipids offers valuable insights into potential preventative measures. Managing cardiovascular risk factors might not only benefit heart health but could also play a crucial role in reducing the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

For further details, see the study: Sokratis Charisis et al, 'Association of Blood Lipoprotein Levels With Incident Alzheimer Disease in Community-Dwelling Individuals,' published in Neurology (2025). Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-bad-cholesterol-higher-fat-markers.html