These efforts led to collaboration by the International Brain pH Project that involves 131 scientists in 105 labs from seven countries. The scientists have identified changes in lactate levels and brain activity in animals showing signs of metabolic dysfunction. The findings from five mouse models were noted in the team’s published paper. The alterations that were commonly observed were bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and autism.

The Largest Study

According to Hideo Hagihara, first author and a medical scientist at Fujita Health University, this is the first and the largest study evaluating lactate and brain pH levels for neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. The scientists found it remarkable that approximately 30% of animals studied (2,294) using 109 separate models showed significant changes in lactate and pH levels. The implication is that these disruptions are often common in neuropsychiatric conditions.
The team saw consistent shifts in both lactate and brain pH levels in rats, mice, chicks, and several animals that were genetically modified to mimic neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases.

Although the researchers acknowledge that there is a limited amount of information available, these findings can lead to diagnostics and treatment of complex disorders affecting a large portion of the world’s population. Masayuki Matsushita, cellular and molecular physiologist from the University of Ryukyus in Japan, believes that the new research may be a step towards reaching therapeutic targets in several neuropsychiatric disorders.

Dr. Matsushita speaks of lactate increases in brain levels that may lower pH. The evidence uncovered thus far suggests that this common trait surfaces in many disorders the team is now studying.
The theory is that environmental or genetic factors, (inflammation is one example) may bring about the neuropsychiatric conditions. Another theory suggests subgroups of metabolic dysfunction in people diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.

It is noteworthy that the team found a link between levels of high lactate and diminished working memory. This may indicate a direct impact on the cognitive ability of people with a neuropsychiatric disorder. The current assumption is that mitochondrial dysfunction equals less lactate consumption used to produce energy. This may lead to impaired memory function as well as impaired learning.
Authors of the study say that results highlight the brain’s pH and could serve as markers for cognitive impairment disorders. The scientists will continue to research and develop tailored treatment for subgroups including brain/energy metabolism.

Check out the full study here.