Minimally invasive test assesses the relative levels of potassium isotopes in human blood serum and shows the potential to diagnose Alzheimer's disease before symptoms become apparent A recent study in Metallomics investigated stable potassium (K) isotope ratios (δ 41 K) in serum samples of individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Background Brain biometal alterations among individuals with Alzheimer's disease have led to increased scientific interest in isotope metallomics, which uses analytical geochemistry to characterize biometal isotopes among biological systems. In neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease, metals such as calcium, iron, copper, and zinc accumulate within the brain.
Metal accumulation correlates with amyloid b (Aβ) protein buildup and plaque development. In contrast, studies report that potassium levels decrease in Alzheimer's disease brains with a concomitant increase in serum at midlife. Metal levels in serum may thus serve as a non-invasive biomarker for Alzheimer's disease.
Image Credit: Peter Hermes Furian/Shutterstock.com Potassium is a vital mineral and electrolyte that plays a key role in the proper functioning of cells, nerves, and muscles in the body. It helps regulate fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions, including those in the heart.
Potassium is essential for maintaining normal blood pressure and reducing the risk of stroke by counteracting the effects of sodium. About the study The present study researchers in.