A recent study led by the Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology group at the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) and the University of Barcelona has unveiled a groundbreaking biomarker for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease, even in its asymptomatic stages
The study highlights miR-519a-3p, a microRNA directly associated with the expression of the cellular prion protein (PrPC), as a promising biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease.
PrPC deregulation is observed in individuals affected by various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s.
Why is early detection of Alzheimer’s disease so important?
Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease is crucial for improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
With more than 35 million people worldwide affected by Alzheimer’s, the discovery of stable and easily detectable biomarkers offers hope for timely intervention and management.
“Currently, tests to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease are usually carried out after the onset of symptoms, when there is already underlying cognitive impairment. We believe that the detection of this microRNA may help to establish additional criteria for a more accurate diagnosis in the early stages of the disease,” explains IBEC principal investigator José Antonio del Río, full professor at the Faculty of Biology and the Institute of Neurosciences of the University of Barcelona (UB) and co-leader of the study.
Uncovering an unprecedented link between the biomarker and Alzheimer’s
This research marks the first time miR-519a-3p has been specifically linked to the decrease in cellular prion protein production during the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
The findings pave the way for novel diagnostic approaches that may enhance accuracy, particularly in the early stages of the disease.
Specificity in biomarker
The study ensures the specificity of miR-519a-3p as an Alzheimer’s biomarker by comparing its levels in samples from other neurodegenerative diseases, such as tauopathies and Parkinson’s disease. The results confirm the uniqueness of miR-519a-3p alterations to Alzheimer’s disease.
Future directions for Alzheimer’s and genetic research
The researchers are now focused on validating miR-519a-3p as a biomarker in blood samples from diverse patient cohorts.
This validation process is a crucial step toward incorporating miR-519a-3p into clinical diagnosis protocols for Alzheimer’s disease.
The potential impact of the biomarker discovery
MiR-519a-3p holds promise as a non-invasive, easily detectable biomarker for early Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Its integration into clinical practice could revolutionise diagnostic approaches and facilitate timely interventions, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
The discovery of miR-519a-3p as a novel biomarker for early Alzheimer’s detection represents a significant breakthrough in neurodegenerative disease research. With further validation and implementation, this biomarker has the potential to transform Alzheimer’s diagnosis and management, offering hope for millions affected by this debilitating condition.
Dementia Action Week
Dementia Action Week 2024 (13th – 19th May), is Alzheimer’s Society’s annual campaign that brings people together from across the country under a unified theme to take action on dementia.
This year, Alzheimer’s Society is taking action to improve dementia diagnosis rates in the UK with a weeklong campaign advocating for the Government and the NHS to prioritise dementia diagnosis.
We proudly report on the latest developments and research in dementia. Find out more below:
