Elevated plasma neurofilament light predicts a faster rate of cognitive decline over 5 years in participants with objectively-defined subtle cognitive decline and MCI.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Neurofilament light (NFL) reflects neuroaxonal damage and is implicated in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Little is known about NFL in pre-MCI stages, such as in individuals with objectively-defined subtle cognitive decline (Obj-SCD).

Methods

Two hundred ninety-four participants from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) underwent baseline blood draw and serial neuropsychological testing over 5 years of follow-up.

Results

Individuals with Obj-SCD and MCI showed elevated baseline plasma NFL relative to the cognitively normal (CN) group. Across the sample, elevated NFL predicted faster rate of cognitive and functional decline. Within the Obj-SCD and MCI groups, higher NFL levels predicted faster rate of declin

SUBMITTER: Bangen KJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8517034 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature