Researchers from the University of Barcelona in Spain have identified a biomarker within the asymptomatic stages of Alzheimer’s disease in an attempt to diagnose the condition earlier. With an estimated 32 million people globally living with Alzheimer’s disease and that number expected to grow, it is crucial to find new ways to identify the disease before symptoms manifest. This biomarker, a molecule called miR-519a-3p, is a microRNA directly linked to the expression of the cellular prion protein, which can indicate biological changes in the brain before cognitive symptoms occur. The team of researchers discovered that this biomarker is specific to Alzheimer’s disease and not other neurodegenerative diseases, making it a promising candidate for early diagnosis.
It is challenging to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease in its early stages, as individuals typically present symptoms when they seek medical consultation. This delayed diagnosis hinders the possibility of early intervention to slow down disease progression. By identifying specific biomarkers like miR-519a-3p within the asymptomatic stages of Alzheimer’s, researchers hope to provide a more accurate diagnosis during the early phases of the disease. Early diagnosis is crucial in potentially treating symptoms and delaying disease progression, as there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease.
Karen D. Sullivan, PhD, ABPP, highlighted the importance of diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease in its earliest stage to facilitate personalized therapies and potentially stabilize the condition. The physiological disease process in Alzheimer’s starts decades before the clinical symptoms emerge, emphasizing the significance of early detection to prevent irreversible brain damage. Manisha Parulekar, FACP, AGSF, CMD, stressed the importance of having more tools for early Alzheimer’s diagnosis to enable timely interventions and support for patients and care providers. Identifying various biomarkers can help in understanding the disease’s pathophysiology and potentially identifying effective treatments.
Jose Antonio del Rio, PhD, emphasized the importance of developing technology to detect small changes associated with the biomarker miR-519a-3p in blood samples routinely obtained in hospitals. This technology could potentially allow for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease in asymptomatic stages, facilitating better patient outcomes through timely interventions. Collaborating with clinical groups, the researchers aim to refine their techniques and develop an early signature of the disease using multiple microRNAs. The ultimate goal is to combine various biomarkers to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis during its early stages.
The discovery of the biomarker miR-519a-3p offers promising potential in diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease in its asymptomatic stages, providing a glimmer of hope in the fight against the devastating condition. The early detection of Alzheimer’s disease can significantly impact patient care and treatment outcomes, allowing for personalized therapies and interventions to slow disease progression. Continued research efforts and clinical collaborations are essential in advancing the field of Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis and treatment, ultimately striving towards finding effective treatments for the millions affected by this debilitating condition.
