A study led by UCLA researchers identified a potential blood test biomarker, placental growth factor (PlGF), for detecting changes in blood vessels related to cognitive impairment and dementia. Elevated levels of PlGF were associated with increased vascular permeability, fluid accumulation in the brain’s white matter, and cognitive decline. The study included a diverse sample of participants from different racial and ethnic backgrounds with varying vascular risk factors. While PlGF shows promise as a biomarker for cerebral small vessel disease, further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm causation and timing. Using PlGF as a screening tool could help identify at-risk patients earlier, allowing for preventive treatments before cognitive decline begins.
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New blood test could help identify patients at risk for cognitive impairment
