Association between fatty acid metabolism in the brain and Alzheimer disease neuropathology and cognitive performance

Alterations in brain lipid metabolism have emerged as a key factor in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease (AD) and its associated cognitive decline. This course examines the critical relationship between fatty acid metabolism, AD neuropathology, and cognitive performance, providing clinicians and researchers with a comprehensive understanding of current evidence and its clinical implications.

Participants will explore how disruptions in fatty acid synthesis, transport, and oxidation affect neuronal integrity, synaptic function, and amyloid-beta accumulation. The course reviews cutting-edge findings linking specific lipid species to tau pathology, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction, while addressing potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Emphasis is placed on translating metabolic insights into clinical strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and management of Alzheimer disease.

Topics covered include:

• Overview of Brain Fatty Acid Metabolism: Roles of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, lipid transport, and energy regulation in neuronal function.
• Lipid Dysregulation in AD: Mechanistic pathways connecting altered lipid profiles to amyloid-beta aggregation, tau hyperphosphorylation, and synaptic loss.
• Neuroinflammation and Oxidative Stress: Contributions of lipid peroxidation and inflammatory mediators to AD progression.
• Cognitive Implications: Associations between fatty acid imbalances, memory deficits, and executive function decline.
• Biomarkers and Diagnostic Potential: Emerging tools for detecting metabolic changes linked to AD risk.
• Therapeutic Perspectives: Evidence on dietary interventions, pharmacologic agents, and lipid-targeted therapies under investigation.
• Translational Research: Applying metabolic findings to clinical practice and public health strategies.

Important Disclosures:

• Conflict of Interest: Faculty and planners report no relevant financial relationships.
• Commercial Support: This activity received no external commercial funding or sponsorship.
• Non-Endorsement: Accreditation does not imply endorsement of any commercial products or companies.
• Off-Label Product Use: Any mention of off-label drug use is consistent with current clinical guidelines and evidence-based practice.