Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) have identified a potential blood biomarker and a placental growth factor (PLGF) that could lead to earlier detection of cognitive impairment and dementia.
The study has identified that the levels of PlGF, a protein, are directly related to vascular permeability in the brain, one of the most critical causes of cognitive decline among many senior citizens globally.
With clinically approved early detection tests for dementia not yet available on the market, these findings could lead to the use of a simple blood test to detect dementia early before the onset of symptoms.
This could offer a more affordable and accessible alternative to MRI scans, enabling earlier diagnosis and intervention for at-risk individuals.
Dementia Affects Million Globally
According to the WHO, dementia is a generic term for loss of memory and other cognitive abilities that interfere with a person’s daily life. It is estimated to affect over 55 million people worldwide, with nearly 10 million new cases annually.
Manifestations of the syndrome could present from mild to severe conditions, where some progress to needing full assistance for daily activities. Though quite common among those over the age of 65, dementia should not be considered part of normal aging.
Symptoms of dementia are subtle, yet progressive neurodegenerative diseases manifested through such symptoms, including memory loss, anxiety, and inability to make decisions. Dementia results from damage to the nerve cells and the neurons in the brain, which are also linked with various diseases.
What is PIGF, and How is it Linked to Dementia?
PlGF is a protein generally secreted by the placenta and has been used in diagnosing pre-eclampsia in pregnant women. Interestingly, the researchers found high levels of PlGF relating to increased vascular permeability in the brain, evidence of its involvement in cerebral small vessel disease development.
Increased permeability would lead to a weakening of the blood-brain barrier associated with cognitive decline. It hints that, compared with diagnostic tools such as MRI scans, the blood test for the level of PlGF should be inexpensive and accessible to help people know their risks of developing dementia before the symptoms appear.
This might even allow some early intervention in those identified as potential carriers of dementia to help delay its course of action.
