Alzheimer’s disease is difficult to detect in its early phases. Today, diagnosis is often based on brain scans, samples of cerebrospinal fluid, and cognitive tests.
According to researchers, these methods can be both burdensome and expensive and are therefore typically used only once symptoms are already affecting daily life.
As a result, research is focusing on new ways to identify the disease earlier, preferably using less invasive methods.
Focus on energy in the brain
According to a research update from Northern Arizona University, a research team is studying how the brain uses glucose, its primary source of energy.
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The project is led by Travis Gibbons from the Department of Biological Sciences and is supported, among others, by the Arizona Alzheimer’s Association.
Travis Gibbons explains to Science Daily that the brain’s energy consumption declines in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
A healthy brain normally uses a large amount of energy, he explains.
An early decline in this process may therefore serve as a warning sign before symptoms become obvious.
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Blood tests instead of invasive procedures
Previously, invasive methods were required to measure the brain’s metabolism.
According to Northern Arizona University, researchers are now examining an alternative approach based on microvesicles in the blood.
These small particles can originate from nerve cells and contain information about the condition of the brain.
Travis Gibbons describes the method as less invasive, although it is still under development and requires extensive laboratory work.
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Opportunities and limitations
The study is initially being tested on healthy individuals and later on people with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease.
This means that the results cannot yet be used in the healthcare system.
However, Travis Gibbons sees long-term potential and says there may soon be an opportunity to help people with early-stage Alzheimer’s.
According to the university, this could ultimately reduce the burden on both patients and society.
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Sources: Science Daily, and Northern Arizona University.
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