United States: For people who think they are probably have early signs of dementia, opportunities to get an early diagnosis are limited. However, a new blood test could be a quick, cheap way of identifying changes in the brain that can lead to – cognitive decline and dementia, as reported by HealthDay.
This paper looks into the function of PlGF in brain wellbeing.
The test examines the placental growth factor (PlGF), which is an enzyme, related to the condition of the blood vessels walls. This protein controls the transport of blood borne nutrient, water and other molecules into the blood. A study done in the international journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia on December 18 also reveals that high plasma PlGF levels may suggest deteriorating brain performance.
Study Findings: PlGF and Brain Changes
In a study involving 370 seniors with an average age of 72, researchers observed a correlation between higher PlGF levels and brain abnormalities, including increased water volume and changes in white matter. These alterations were associated with lower performance on cognitive tests, suggesting a connection between PlGF and brain aging.
A Tool for Early Intervention
“PlGF could be used as a cost-effective screening tool for identifying patients at risk for vascular brain injury before the insidious onset of cognitive decline,” said Dr. Kyle Kern, lead researcher and vascular neurologist at UCLA Health.
The test offers potential benefits not only for patients and clinicians but also for researchers seeking participants for clinical trials. Early detection could enable physicians to implement treatments and lifestyle changes to preserve brain health and delay cognitive decline.
Limitations and Future Research
Currently, vascular brain damage is diagnosed using MRI scans, typically after significant damage has occurred. The blood test could fill this gap by identifying risks earlier. However, researchers caution that further studies are needed to confirm the reliability of PlGF as a diagnostic marker for dementia, as reported by HealthDay.
A Vision for Preventive Screening
Researchers hope the test could eventually be used for younger populations to prevent or reverse the effects of vascular injury before cognitive dysfunction develops.