Study Challenges Blood Biomarkers for Early Alzheimer's Detection
A recent study challenges the use of certain blood biomarkers as early warning signs for Alzheimer's disease. The research, published in 'Nature Communications', found that proteins called p-Tau variants 181 and 217, previously thought to be specific to Alzheimer's, are also elevated in people with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
The multi-center study, led by the University Medicine Halle in cooperation with other neurological centers, involved 385 participants. It discovered that these p-Tau variants, when found in the blood, are not as specific to Alzheimer's as initially believed. This calls into question their suitability for early and follow-up diagnostics, as well as monitoring the effects of new drugs.
The study also revealed that the muscle tissue of ALS patients can produce p-Tau on its own, contradicting established theories about the origin of tau in Alzheimer's. Despite these findings, p-Tau proteins remain valuable candidates for early diagnosis of Alzheimer's using a blood test, although further refinement is needed for greater precision.
Published in 'Nature Communications' on March 5, 2025, the study was funded by several organizations, including the Clinician Scientist Program of the Medical Faculty of Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg. While the study brings new insights, it also underscores the need for more accurate tests to effectively screen the general population for Alzheimer's disease.
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