Subjective Cognitive Decline in Older Adults: The Role of Alpha-Synuclein and Amyloid Pathologies
Author Information
Author(s): Thomas Kelsey, Bangen Katherine, Rotblatt Lindsay, Tosun Duygu, Galasko Douglas
Primary Institution: University of California San Diego
Hypothesis
The study investigates the association between subjective cognitive decline and the presence of alpha-synuclein and amyloid pathologies in older adults without dementia.
Conclusion
The presence of both amyloid and alpha-synuclein pathologies is associated with greater subjective cognitive decline in older adults without dementia.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants were classified as positive or negative for amyloid and alpha-synuclein using cerebrospinal fluid analysis.
- The A+/α-syn+ group reported the highest levels of subjective cognitive decline.
- The study found that the presence of alpha-synuclein alone did not lead to greater subjective cognitive decline.
Takeaway
Older people who feel their memory is getting worse might have specific brain changes, especially when both amyloid and alpha-synuclein are present.
Methodology
Participants were classified based on amyloid and alpha-synuclein status, and subjective cognitive decline was measured using self-reports and study partner reports.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 451 cognitively normal individuals and 476 with mild cognitive impairment, with adjustments made for various demographic factors.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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