Simple saliva test could be used to identify early signs of Alzheimer’s Disease, researchers say
Experts hope probing molecules found inside people’s spit could lead to early treatment for the condition
A SIMPLE saliva test has shown promise in identifying early signs of Alzheimer’s Disease, researchers say.
The new technique probes molecules found inside people’s spit.
Experts hope it could lead to early treatment, which is considered the most effective.
The test was developed after researchers found molecules in saliva hold promise as reliable diagnostic biomarkers.
Dr Stewart Graham, of the Beaumont Research Institute in Michigan, US, said: “Our study demonstrates the potential for using metabolomics and saliva for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s.
“Presently, therapies for Alzheimer’s are initiated only after a patient is diagnosed and treatments offer modest benefits.
“Saliva is among the most non-invasive means of getting cellular samples and also inexpensive.”
Around 800,000 people in the UK currently have dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Society.
One in three people over 65 is expected to develop the condition.
The numbers are increasing because people are living longer.
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It is estimated that by 2021, the number with dementia in the UK will have increased to around one million.
Researchers want to develop valid and reliable biomarkers so they can diagnose the disease in its earliest stages before brain damage occurs and dementia begins.
The US team conducted tests involving 29 people for their pilot study.
They are now seeking additional funding to conduct a larger, three-year programme involving more participants.
Metabolomics is used in medicine and biology to study living organisms.
It measures large numbers of naturally occurring molecules, called metabolites, present in blood, saliva and tissue.