The single-stranded DNA molecules developed by researchers using the SELEX technology could transform blood testing for Alzheimer's biomarkers. These synthetic aptamers target neurofilament light chain (NfL), a structural protein component of nerve cells, that is released into the bloodstream upon neuronal injury. These aptamers exhibit binding strength and selectivity comparable to anti-NfL antibodies used in current tests, while being more economical to produce and reliable, opening the door to affordable, diagnostic biosensors.

lzheimer's disease affects an estimated 7.2 million Americans age 65 and older, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Current tests often measure the levels of two proteins—amyloid beta (Aβ) and phosphorylated tau (p-tau)—in the blood or spinal fluid, but these markers may not fully capture earlier biological changes linked to disease progression. Now, scientists at Scripps Research have developed a blood-based approach that examines how proteins are folded in the bloodstream rather than simply measuring their concentrations.

Neuroscientists at King’s College London have pinpointed a mechanism behind the increased neural connectivity seen in very early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.  Published in Translational Psychiatry, the study also demonstrated that a cancer medication has the potential to reduce this hyperconnectivity.