In a recent study, it was found that certain blood markers linked to Alzheimer’s disease increase with age and are connected to known dementia risk factors. The study was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association and presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Philadelphia.
Researchers from the University of North Carolina, led by Dr. Yifei Lu, studied changes in blood markers over time and their link to dementia in 1,525 people from a long-term U.S. health study. Blood samples were taken when participants were about 58 years old and again when they were about 76 years old. They were followed until they reached an average age of 80. The researchers focused on how these blood markers related to the development of dementia in a group of 1,339 people.
Out of the 1,525 participants, 16.5% developed dementia. It was found that the ratio of a specific protein, amyloid-β 42 to amyloid-β 40 (Aβ42
β40), decreased, while other markers, such as phosphorylated tau (p-tau181), neurofilament light (NfL), and glial fibrillary acidic protein, increased from midlife to late life. These changes were more noticeable in people with a genetic variant known as apolipoprotein E epsilon 4. Midlife levels of Alzheimer’s markers were linked to late-life dementia, with significant connections found for all markers in late life, especially NfL.
“The connection between Alzheimer’s markers and dementia begins in midlife, and measures of neuronal injury and brain cell inflammation in late life are all linked to dementia,” the researchers noted.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease:
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. It is the most common cause of dementia among older adults.
Causes:
- Genetic factors: Family history and genetic mutations can increase the risk.
- Age: Risk increases with age, particularly after 65.
- Other factors: Lifestyle, cardiovascular health, and head injuries.
Symptoms and Signs:
- Memory loss: Difficulty remembering recent events or conversations.
- Cognitive decline: Problems with planning, problem-solving, and understanding visual images.
- Behavioral changes: Mood swings, depression, and social withdrawal.
Treatment and Management:
- Medications: Drugs like donepezil and memantine can help manage symptoms.
- Lifestyle changes: Healthy diet, regular exercise, and mental stimulation can slow progression.
- Alternative treatments: Some find benefits in acupuncture, herbal supplements, and cognitive therapies.
Key Insights:
- Blood markers related to Alzheimer’s increase with age.
- These markers are linked to higher dementia risk.
- The study highlights the importance of monitoring these markers from midlife.
- Alzheimer’s disease symptoms and management include a mix of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and alternative therapies.
Source: Journal of the American Medical Association.