New research reveals that newborns have significantly higher levels of the protein p-tau217 in their blood than adults, including those with Alzheimer's disease. This challenges the understanding that elevated p-tau217 is solely linked to neurodegeneration.
An international study analyzed blood samples from over 400 individuals, including newborns, premature infants, and Alzheimer's patients. Newborns, especially premature infants, showed the highest concentrations of p-tau217, which decreased over the first few months of life.
The protein is believed to support the formation of new neural networks in newborns. This discovery prompts a reevaluation of p-tau217's role, potentially offering insights into Alzheimer's disease treatment.