Alzheimer’s Could be Detected by Simple Eye Test

According to UK scientists, the technique uses fluorescent markers which attach to dying cells that can be seen in the retina and give an early indication of brain cell death.

Research has been carried out on mice, with human trials ready to begin. The research, which is published in the journal, Cell Death and Disease, could enable scientists to overcome the difficulty of investigating what is happening inside the brains of those with Alzheimer’s. Currently the only tests we have are expensive MRI scans or post-mortems.

Fluorescent Dye
The new technique enables scientists to track the progress of brain disease by looking at dying cells in the retina, which show up as green dots. The dying and dead cells absorb the fluorescent dye.

So far research has only been carried out on mice, but scientists are optimistic that the technique can be translated to humans.

Professor Francesca Coredeiro, from University College London Institute of Ophthalmology said: “Few people realise that the retina is a direct, albeit thin, extension of the brain. It is entirely possible that in the future a visit to an optician to check on your eyesight will also be a check on the state of your brain.”

Dr. Coredeiro said she hopes that screening for Alzheimer’s will be available within five years.
The first clinical trials will begin by the end of2010.

Rebecca Wood, Chief Executive of the Alzheimer’s Research Trust, said: “These findings have the potential to transform the way we diagnose Alzheimer’s, greatly enhancing efforts to develop new treatments and cures. If we spot Alzheimer’s in its earliest stages, we may be able to treat and reverse the progression of the disease as new treatments are developed.”

700,000 people in the UK live with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and that number is set to double within a generation unless scientists make rapid progress in their race for a cure.”

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