A study from NUS Medicine identified four blood proteins associated with cerebrovascular disease progression, cognitive decline, and mortality.
Key facts
- •Four specific blood proteins were identified as potential predictors of worsening cerebrovascular disease and cognitive decline.
- •The initial study involved 518 participants from a Singapore memory clinic who underwent blood profiling and brain MRI scans.
- •Researchers measured over 1,400 proteins using an advanced proteomics platform to map them against brain lesion types.
- •The protein signatures were validated in an independent cohort where they were also associated with mortality.
- •The study was published in Alzheimer's & Dementia in 2026 by researchers from NUS Medicine and NUHS.
Researchers at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, have identified four blood proteins that may help predict worsening cerebrovascular disease, cognitive decline, and serious cardiovascular events. The study, led by Professor Christopher Chen, analyzed blood samples from 518 participants in a Singapore memory clinic cohort. By measuring over 1,400 proteins and mapping them against brain MRI scans, the team identified specific protein signatures associated with both existing brain damage and its progression over time.
By the numbers
Study Methodology and Findings
The research team used an advanced proteomics platform to measure over 1,400 proteins in the blood of 518 participants. They mapped these proteins against various types of cerebrovascular damage, including white matter hyperintensities, lacunes, cerebral microbleeds, and cortical infarcts. Repeat brain imaging allowed researchers to distinguish between proteins associated with current disease and those linked to its progression, involving biological processes such as inflammation, immune responses, cell adhesion, and blood clotting.
Validation and Clinical Implications
The identified protein signatures were tested in an independent Singaporean cohort, where they were also found to be associated with mortality. Professor Chen stated that the goal is to develop tools that identify high-risk individuals before substantial brain damage occurs. The team aims to investigate the biological roles of these proteins for potential use in future treatments or multi-marker tests for personalized risk assessment. Further validation is required before these biomarkers can be integrated into clinical practice.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Medical Xpress.
