Novel biomarkers for future dementia risk: Participants’ blood samples were drawn years before their dementia diagnosis

Researchers found that higher blood concentrations of molecules called branched-chain amino acids were associated with lower risk of future dementia. Another molecule, creatinine, and two very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)-specific lipoprotein lipid subclasses also were associated with lower risk of dementia. One high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and one VLDL lipoprotein subclass were associated with increased dementia risk. These findings will broaden the search for drug targets in dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease, vascular disease and other subtypes. In the future, the Glenn Biggs Institute may investigate the feasibility of developing a diagnostic exam, such as a blood test, to assess each patient’s molecular signature of dementia risk. The altered metabolite signatures were observed years before the diagnosis of dementia when those study participants were healthy, Dr. Seshadri said.
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