Scientists say a new biomarker that predicts the risk of developing dementia can be detected with a simple blood test—a test they hope will be applicable in clinical practice.
“The blood test will enable an earlier and more focused prevention effort, thus prolonging the onset of the illness and raising the individual’s quality of life,” says Ruth Frikke-Schmidt, assistant clinical and research professor at the University of Copenhagen and consultant physician at Rigshopitalet, Herlev Hospital.
The low level of apolipoprotein E in the blood, the researchers say, most likely reflects a low level of apolipoprotein E in the brain, and this indicates that beta-amyloid is less effectively removed. photog/shutterstock
