Title:Metabolic Syndrome and Its Effect on the Brain: Possible Mechanism
VOLUME: 17 ISSUE: 8
Author(s):Nurul ‘Ain Arshad, Teoh Seong Lin and Mohamad Fairuz Yahaya*
Affiliation:Department of Anatomy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Department of Anatomy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Department of Anatomy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, 56000 Kuala Lumpur
Keywords:Metabolic syndrome, brain effect, possible pathology, insulin resistance, International Diabetic Federation (IDF),
diagnosis.
Abstract:Background & Objective: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an interconnected group of
physiological, biochemical, clinical and metabolic factors that directly increase the risk of cardiovascular
disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and mortality. Rising evidence suggests that MetS
plays a significant role in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Nonetheless, the factors linking this association has not yet been elucidated. As we are facing an
increasing incidence of obesity and T2DM in all stages of life, understanding the association of MetS
and neurodegenerative diseases is crucial to lessen the burden of the disease.
Conclusion: In this review, we will discuss the possible mechanisms which may relate the association
between MetS and cognitive decline which include vascular damages, elevation of reactive oxygen
species (ROS), insulin resistance and low-grade inflammation.
