Amyloid-associated depression: a prodromal depression of Alzheimer disease?

ABSTRACT:

Context

A high ratio of plasma amyloid-beta peptide 40 (Abeta(40)) to Abeta(42), determined by both high Abeta(40) and low Abeta(42) levels, increases the risk of Alzheimer disease. In a previous study, we reported that depression is also associated with low plasma Abeta(42) levels in the elderly population.

Objective

To characterize plasma Abeta(40):Abeta(42) ratio and cognitive function in elderly individuals with and without depression.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Homecare agencies.

Participants

A total of 995 homebound elderly individuals of whom 348 were defined as depressed by a Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression score of 16 or greater.

Main outcome measures

Cognitive domains of memory, language, executive, and visuospat

SUBMITTER: Sun X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3042807 | biostudies-literature | 2008 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature