Biomarker Discovery

Unlocking The Power of Biomarkers

Biological markers (biomarkers) serve as critical indicators of Alzheimer’s presence and disease mechanisms, which in turn help guide our fight against the disease. The USC Center for Personalized Brain Health has established new biological markers and continues to advance discoveries. Biomarkers serve as critical indicators, illuminating the path forward in our fight against this disease.

Established biomarkers such as amyloid-beta peptides and phosphorylated tau proteins are key to understanding the effects of Alzheimer’s in the brain. Additionally, we can gain new insights on how the disease starts and progresses by exploring how the genetic risk factor APOE ε4 relates to the body’s use of lipids such as omega-3 fatty acids and brain inflammation. This approach is fundamental not only for enhancing early detection but also for developing targeted therapies.

By integrating our findings from biomarker research, we aim to reshape Alzheimer’s treatment. The new drug therapies we develop will move beyond one-size-fits-all solutions to provide personalized treatment tailored to the individual characteristics of each person.

Leading this endeavor is our multidisciplinary team of researchers and clinicians, committed to both scientific innovation and making real-world impact by opening new avenues in Alzheimer’s care.

Plasma Biomakers – Early Signs for Early Intervention

The future of Alzheimer’s disease care may very well be a path to prevention that begins long before cognitive decline occurs. The USC Center for Personalized Brain Health is laying the foundation by seeking biological markers to guide personalized interventions.

Our research into blood (plasma) markers stems from the interplay of Alzheimer’s disease, the risk-driving APOE ε4 gene variant, and the body’s system for making use of lipids such as fatty acids and cholesterol.

Previous studies have homed in on the proteins that act as a transport system for lipids. Altered versions of these transport proteins could serve as markers — with the potential to develop blood tests that predict Alzheimer’s disease.

At the USC Center for Personalized Brain Health, we are taking these findings to the next step. Our long-term vision is to reduce Alzheimer’s risk by offering interventions customized for the changes in the brains of individuals with the APOE ε4 gene variant.