Identification of Blood Proteins That Predict Future Cognitive Decline

Researchers from the National University of Singapore have discovered specific proteins in the blood that can forecast subsequent cognitive decline and the potential development of dementia. This groundbreaking study analyzed over 1,000 proteins in blood samples from a cohort of 528 patients attending memory clinics at Singapore's National University Hospital and St Luke's Hospital. Led by Professor Christopher Chen, Deputy Chair of the Healthy Longevity Translational Research Program at NUS Medicine, the study aimed to find biomarkers that could enhance early detection of dementia.

The team utilized advanced proteomic technologies to identify a signature of blood proteins associated with neurodegeneration, inflammation, and vascular dysfunction—key factors implicated in dementia. As explained by co-senior author Professor Arthur Mark Richards, these protein profiles indicate a higher risk of developing cognitive decline, even after adjusting for age and other health conditions. The identified biomarkers were also linked to early brain changes such as shrinkage in brain volume and small vessel disease, which are early indicators of dementia.

Combining these blood-based biomarkers with existing clinical risk assessments significantly improved the accuracy of predicting future cognitive deterioration. The findings were further validated in a separate group of Caucasian patients using cerebrospinal fluid analysis, which confirmed the reliability of these protein markers across diverse populations and biological fluids.

Dr. Sim Ming Ann, the lead author, emphasized that early identification of at-risk individuals could facilitate timely interventions, potentially slowing disease progression and enhancing quality of life. The research also sheds light on the biological mechanisms behind dementia, opening avenues for developing targeted therapies.

Overall, this innovative approach highlights the potential of blood tests as a non-invasive tool for early detection and risk assessment of dementia, especially in Southeast Asian populations with unique health profiles. Future research will focus on understanding how these proteins function within the body and exploring their utility in treatment development, aiming to improve health outcomes for aging populations.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-key-blood-proteins-future-cognitive.html