Researchers have found excess sugar causes a modification to build up on a protein called Creb3.
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High blood sugar affects cognitive function via lactate
Researchers have found excess sugar causes a modification to build up on a protein called Creb3, which then activates a gene that boosts the production of lactate in the hippocampus, the brain’s memory centre. Excessive lactate kills brain cells, leading to cognitive impairment. A large study confirmed high blood lactate is a risk factor for memory loss in people with diabetes. The team developed a peptide that, in diabetic mice, lowered lactate levels, preserving cognitive function.
Published – April 19, 2026 08:00 am IST