BIOFACE (Biomarker Study in Early-Onset Mild Cognitive Impairment at Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona)

Although age is the main risk factor for the development of dementia, cognitive impairment can also manifest at earlier ages. Early-onset dementia represents a serious health and social problem, as it affects individuals in the productive years of their working lives and with economic and family responsibilities. In light of this evidence, the study of Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers in vesicles such as plasma neuronal exosomes (PNE), which are capable of enabling early diagnosis of the disease, is particularly urgent in younger populations, where distinguishing a neurodegenerative process from other causes of cognitive impairment has major occupational, social and family implications.

BIOFACE analyses different biomarkers (neuroimaging, genetic and biochemical) with the aim of assessing whether they can serve as a useful diagnostic tool for mild cognitive impairment in individuals under 65 years of age. This clinical study, with a two-year follow-up, observes the progression of individuals diagnosed with presenile-onset mild cognitive impairment at Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona. Approximately 200 participants are expected to complete the study.

BIOFACE researchers evaluate a panel of biomarkers in plasma exosomes of neural origin, brain magnetic resonance imaging, and Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid. They also assess comorbidities, psycho-emotional factor scales, neurological examination and neuropsychological performance. Each patient will undergo three visits during the study: a baseline visit (BV) and two follow-up visits (V1 and V2, respectively). The follow-up visits, which will be used to determine which subjects with cognitive impairment progress to dementia, will be spaced one year apart.