Discriminating between mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease: Validation of early Alzheimer's biomarkers by combining advanced imaging and in vitro diagnostic techniques

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia, implying a progressive decline of cognitive performance and limitation of social activities. In this scenario, in parallel to current research of novel treatments, it is imperative to develop new strategies for an earlier diagnosis of AD. This study has focused on the importance of different isoforms of the Tau protein involved in early pathophysiological processes of AD. Specifically, two new monoclonal antibodies (mAb) against phosphorylated tau (p-Tau) and acetylated tau (ac-Tau) have been produced, with which a clinical immunodiagnostic kit and a preclinical radiotracer for PET 89-Zirconium (89Zr)-pTau mAb have been developed for diagnostic purposes. In addition, a preclinical proof of concept of immunotherapy with p-Tau antibody has been also carried out.