Protein-based biomarkers in blood could help accurately diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, report claims

New research published in the September issue of Archives of Neurology journal (Monday, 13 September) suggests that testing for biomarkers in blood could help more accurately diagnose people with Alzheimer's disease.  

Researchers at the Texas Alzheimer's Research Consortium analysed proteins in the blood of 197 people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and 203 people without Alzheimer's disease. A retrospective study tested for 30 proteins associated with inflammatory reactions. Researchers found that the test diagnosed Alzheimer's disease with the same accuracy as current psychological assessments. When the two techniques were combined, the researchers predicted that people could be more accurately diagnosed. Currently, it is only possible to diagnose Alzheimer's disease with psychological assessments, and even specialists do not always get it right.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'The results of this large study are exciting, as they could help the 100, 000 people who develop dementia each year get an earlier and more accurate diagnosis. Two thirds of people currently never receive a diagnosis, despite the fact it can help people make sense of what is happening with them and allow them to access vital services.  However, more research is now needed and this test also needs to be simplified to make it easy and accessible.

'The government invests eight times less in dementia research than cancer research. If we want to see the same advancements in dementia diagnosis, treatment and care as we have for cancer, we must invest more.'

Dr Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society

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Research reference: Sid E. O'Bryant PhD et al. A Serum Protein-Based Algorithm for the Detection of Alzheimer Disease. Published in September 2010, issue of Archives of Neurology journal.

Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them. 
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk