University of Surrey Study Reveals Biomarker Fluctuations Throughout the Day
A groundbreaking study from the University of Surrey highlights the significance of timing in Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Researchers discovered that biomarkers used to diagnose Alzheimer’s, including the promising p-tau217, fluctuate throughout the day. This variation could impact diagnosis accuracy.
Key Findings:
- Biomarker levels are lowest in the morning and highest in the evening.
- p-tau217, a promising marker for early diagnosis, shows significant time-of-day differences.
- Four out of five measured biomarkers (p-tau217, Aβ40, Aβ42, and NfL) exhibit daily fluctuations.
Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment:
- Standardizing sample collection times could improve diagnostic accuracy.
- Recording sample timing is crucial for interpreting plasma biomarkers.
- Circadian rhythm research holds promise for better understanding Alzheimer’s.
Expert Insights:
Dr. Ciro della Monica, research fellow, emphasizes, “Considering the time of day when taking clinical diagnostic samples is crucial for accurate diagnoses.”
Professor Derk-Jan Dijk, director of the Surrey Sleep Research Centre, notes, “Translating basic knowledge of circadian rhythms to dementia research holds great promise.”
Study Details:
- 38 participants with mild Alzheimer’s, caregivers, and health controls.
- Blood samples taken every three hours for 24 hours.
- Published in Translational Psychiatry.
What’s Next?
Further research is needed to understand the drivers of these time-of-day differences. Standardizing sample timing could revolutionize Alzheimer’s diagnosis and treatment.
Share Your Thoughts:
How do you think this study will impact Alzheimer’s research and diagnosis? Join the conversation.
Learn More:
Explore the University of Surrey’s research on Alzheimer’s and dementia.
[Source: University of Surrey]
