Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a biomarker test that can detect small amounts of clumping tau protein in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid, potentially up to a decade before symptoms appear. This breakthrough could enable effective intervention and improve treatment outcomes for patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
The test targets specific spots on the tau protein where modifications occur, acting as early warning signals for potential misfolding. By detecting these changes, doctors may be able to identify Alzheimer’s sooner, when treatments are more effective.
This development joins several recent breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s research, including the identification of five subtypes and a high-resolution timeline of cellular images. The test holds promise for improving treatment options and ultimately benefiting the 78 million people estimated to develop various dementias worldwide by 2030.
Source: https://newatlas.com/brain/alzheimers-dementia/alzheimers-biomarkers-visible-decade-before-symptoms