New Molecular Signatures Found for Alzheimer’s Disease
Summary: Researchers identified unique molecular signatures of blood-brain barrier dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease. They discovered altered communication between brain vascular cells mediated by VEGFA and SMAD3 molecules. These findings could lead to new diagnostic biomarkers and treatment options for Alzheimer’s. Key Facts:VEGFA and SMAD3 play crucial roles in blood-brain barrier integrity. Alzheimer’s samples showed disrupted cell communication in brain vascular cells. Higher blood SMAD3 levels correlate with better Alzheimer’s outcomes. Source: Mayo Clinic The blood-brain barrier — a network of blood vessels and tissues that nurtures and protects the brain from harmful substances circulating in the blood — is disrupted in Alzheimer’s disease. Now, researchers at Mayo Clinic and collaborators have uncovered unique molecular signatures of blood-brain barrier dysfunction that could point to new ways to diagnose and treat the disease. Their findings are published in Nature Communica