Retinal changes may serve as early indicator for Alzheimer’s disease

A team of scientists at the Indiana University School of Medicine has established that an eye condition that influences the retina, the light -sensitive tissue in the back of the eye can serve as an early indicator for Alzheimer’s disease. Their findings published in Alzheimer and dementiaoffer new insights into the potential use of retinal changes such as early biomarkers for Alzheimer’s, which can improve the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative disease.

The research was led by the IU School of Medicine PHD -student Surabhi D. Abhyankar, MS, together with colleagues from the School Departments Ophthalmistry and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, and the Leslie Dan Faculty of Toronto. Their findings indicate that the presence of the Apoe4 gene – which is known to increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in humans – influences the retinal function in mice, which suggests a direct connection between this genetic variant and visual processing shortages associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

The eye is a window in the brain that reflects changes related to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Almost 7 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease, and our study will help to offer a convenience of diagnosis and potential intervention for Alzheimer’s disease, which improves patient outcomes and the quality of life in the future. ”

Ashay Bhatwadekar, PhD, Assistantial teacher Ophthalmology and Chief Researcher of the Study

The research team used advanced imaging techniques to assess the retinal structure and function in the mice. In comparison with control groups, they saw significant changes in retinal thickness and electrical activity in organic tissues and cells. These findings correspond to clinical observations of retinal abnormalities in the patients of Alzheimer’s, which strengthens the relevance of this model for studying triggers of the disease.

“Our study shows that retinal dysfunction takes place in the Apoe4 mouse model, which reflects aspects of Alzheimer’s pathology,” said Abhyankar. “These results underline the potential of retinal imaging as a non-invasive method to detect early neural changes in Alzheimer’s disease.”

Other study authors are Qianyi Luo, PhD; Gabriella D. Hartman, BS; Neha Mahajan, PhD; Timothy W. Corson, PhD; Adrian L. Oblak, PhD; and Bruce T. Lamb, Phd.

This research was supported by financing the National Eye Institute and research to prevent blindness.