Alzheimer’s Biomarker Found in Newborns
- Scientists have made a surprising discovery about p-tau217, a biomarker typically associated with Alzheimer's disease.For the first time, they've directly measured concentrations of this protein in the blood...
- The research indicates that in newborns, the surge in tau helps neurons grow and establish new connections, shaping the structure of the developing brain.
- the study, conducted by researchers at the university of Gothenburg, also found a strong correlation between p-tau217 levels and gestational age in both healthy and premature babies.The earlier...
Scientists have uncovered a groundbreaking finding: the AlzheimerS biomarker p-tau217, typically associated with cognitive decline, plays a crucial role in newborn brain development. News Directory 3 reports on this surprising discovery, where high levels of p-tau217 in newborns support neuronal growth unlike in Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers found a correlation between p-tau217 levels and gestational age, suggesting its importance in premature brain development. This challenges conventional understanding,potentially offering new avenues for treating Alzheimer’s. Unraveling how newborns utilize p-tau217 could revolutionize Alzheimer’s therapies.Discover what’s next in the quest to combat this devastating disease.
High Levels of Alzheimer’s Biomarker Found in Newborns Aid Development
Updated June 24, 2025
Scientists have made a surprising discovery about p-tau217, a biomarker typically associated with Alzheimer’s disease.For the first time, they’ve directly measured concentrations of this protein in the blood of human newborns. While elevated p-tau217 signals danger in aging brains,in newborns,it appears to play a vital role in healthy brain development.
The research indicates that in newborns, the surge in tau helps neurons grow and establish new connections, shaping the structure of the developing brain. This contrasts sharply with Alzheimer’s disease, where p-tau217 is linked to the formation of harmful tangles that cause brain cell breakdown and cognitive decline.
the study, conducted by researchers at the university of Gothenburg, also found a strong correlation between p-tau217 levels and gestational age in both healthy and premature babies.The earlier the birth, the higher the levels of the protein, suggesting it supports rapid brain growth under challenging conditions.
Plasma p-tau217 recently gained FDA approval for diagnosing alzheimer’s, highlighting the importance of understanding its function across different life stages. The authors emphasize the need to fully understand the mechanism for the increase in p-tau217, especially for interpreting it as an outcome in clinical and epidemiological research and in drug development. The research suggests that amyloid plaques may not be the primary cause of increased p-tau217.
“We believe that understanding how this natural protection works-and why we lose it as we age-could offer a roadmap for new treatments. If we can learn how the newborn brain keeps tau in check, we might one day mimic those processes to slow or stop Alzheimer’s in its tracks,” says Gonzalez-Ortiz.
What’s next
The findings suggest that the newborn brain may possess built-in protective mechanisms against the damaging effects of tau. Further research into these mechanisms could pave the way for innovative therapies to combat Alzheimer’s disease by replicating the natural processes that safeguard the developing brain.