A ‘stealth phase’ of Alzheimer’s quietly damages the brain decades before diagnosis.
Scientists have discovered that signs of Alzheimer’s disease may appear up to 20 years before traditional memory loss symptoms. Researchers studying brain tissue found that neurons responsible for spatial awareness begin to deteriorate decades before more recognizable signs of dementia set in.
The study, which used advanced machine learning techniques to track harmful protein build-up, revealed that even small amounts of amyloid and tau proteins negatively affect specific brain cells.
Dr Mariano Gabitto explained, “Identifying the earliest neurons lost could be crucial for developing therapeutic interventions to protect them and prevent further cognitive decline.”
This early stage, described as a “stealth phase,” involves the gradual breakdown of inhibitory neurons that help regulate brain function. As the disease progresses into a second stage, the accumulation of toxic proteins accelerates memory loss and confusion.
Dr Igor Camargo Fontana added, “The disease’s long pre-symptomatic and silent period creates opportunities for early detection, early intervention and even prevention of dementia symptoms.”
Dementia rates are projected to rise significantly in the coming decades.