An index enables the measurement of progression in Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s does not affect the brain uniformly. An international study has identified a pattern of asymmetry in the loss of grey matter across the cerebral hemispheres that is associated with greater neurodegeneration and more severe symptoms of the disease. This abnormality, which can be observed using neuroimaging techniques, offers a new perspective on how this form of dementia progresses and paves the way for improved detection and monitoring

A step forward in Alzheimer's detection

The study, published in Brain Communications, analysed data from more than 600 patients with a genetic form of Alzheimer’s disease, using MRI scans and other biomarkers. Using this information, the scientists developed an index capable of quantifying cortical asymmetry and found that this measure can distinguish healthy people from those affected by the disease. Furthermore, changes were also detected in individuals who had not yet developed symptoms, highlighting its potential to spot neurodegenerative processes at very early stages.

The researchers point out that this link may help to better understand how Alzheimer’s disease develops and provide more accurate tools to monitor its progression. Although the study has focused on an inherited form of Alzheimer’s, the researchers are already investigating whether these findings also hold true for the sporadic form, which accounts for the vast majority of cases. If confirmed, this biomarker could become a valuable tool for improving early diagnosis and personalised treatment of a disease that affects millions of people worldwide.