Discovery of new biomarker in blood could lead to early test for Alzheimer’s disease

alzheimers
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Researchers at the University of California San Diego discovered that high blood levels of RNA produced by the PHGDH gene could serve as a biomarker for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. The work could lead to the development of a blood test to identify individuals who will develop the disease years before they show symptoms. The team published their findings in Current Biology.

The PHGDH gene produces RNA and proteins that are critical for and function in infants, children and adolescents. As people get older, the gene typically ramps down its production of these RNAs and proteins. The new study, led by Sheng Zhong, a professor of bioengineering at…

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