Biomarkers

New reference values for cognitive normality allow earlier detection in one of every five cases of mild cognitive impairment

by

The first step in the diagnostic workup of individuals presenting with cognitive symptoms is to determine whether there is objective cognitive impairment. Ideally, this is done through a neuropsychological evaluation: a battery of cognitive tests in which the patient’s performance is interpreted as normal or abnormal as compared to reference values. These reference values are … Read more

Brain Metabolism in Alzheimer’s Disease Associated with Down Syndrome: New Findings with FDG-PET

by
Regional Brain Metabolism across the Alzheimer's Disease Continuum in Down Syndrome

Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic form of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Due to the overexpression of the APP gene on chromosome 21, nearly all individuals with DS develop AD-related pathological changes and dementia secondary to this disease. Brain metabolism, measured using fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography ([¹⁸F]FDG-PET), is considered a biomarker of AD-related neurodegeneration. This recent … Read more

Medial Temporal Lobe Atrophy in Down Syndrome Along the Alzheimer’s Disease Continuum

by

Medial Temporal Lobe Atrophy in Down Syndrome Along the Alzheimer’s Disease Continuum The medial temporal lobe (MTL) is one of the first regions affected by tau pathology, making structural changes in these areas promising biomarkers for identifying early signs of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, little is known about the integrity of these regions in individuals … Read more

proNGF in Neuron-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: An Early Alzheimer’s Signature in Down Syndrome

by
Extracellular Vesicles - Sant Pau Memory Unit

proNGF in Neuron-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: An Early Alzheimer’s Signature in Down Syndrome Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic form of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), with a high risk of early-onset neurodegeneration. This study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, is the first to analyze levels of the nerve growth factor precursor protein (proNGF) in neuron-derived extracellular vesicles … Read more

Synaptic Proteins VAMP-2 and SNAP-25 as Biomarkers in Dementia with Lewy Bodies

by

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is one of the leading causes of dementia, yet clear biomarkers for its diagnosis and monitoring are still lacking. The Lewy bodies in the brains of people with DLB are primarily composed of accumulations of the protein α-synuclein, which can cause synaptic dysfunction from the early stages of the disease. … Read more

Why study sex differences in Alzheimer’s disease and in the context of Down syndrome?

by
Why study sex differences in Alzheimer’s disease and in the context of Down syndrome?

Why study sex differences in Alzheimer’s disease and in the context of Down syndrome? The topic of sex differences is increasingly recognized as a top priority in neurology research, particularly in the context of precision medicine and personalized care strategies. Women account for around two-thirds of patients with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as their caregivers. … Read more