Title:Relationship of Neurofilament Light (NfL) and Cognitive Performance in a Sample of Mexican Americans with Normal Cognition, Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
Volume: 17
Issue: 13
Author(s): James R. Hall*, Leigh A. Johnson, Melissa Peterson, David Julovich, Tori Como and Sid E. O’Bryant
Affiliation:
- Institute for Translational Research, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX,United States
Keywords:
Neurofilament light, mexican americans, cognition processes, normal cognition, MCI, dementia.
Abstract:
Introduction: This study characterized the relationship between plasma NfL and cognition
in a community-based sample of older Mexican Americans.
Methods: 544 participants completed a battery of neuropsychological tests and were diagnosed using
clinical criteria. NfL was assayed using Simoa. NfL levels across groups and tests were analyzed.
Results: Difference in NfL was found between normal and impaired groups and was related to global
cognition, processing speed, executive functions and a list of learning tasks with a significant negative
effect for all diagnostic groups. NfL had a negative impact on processing speed, attention, executive
functions and delayed and recognition memory for both normal and MCI groups.
Conclusion: The research supports plasma NfL as a marker of cognitive impairment related to neurodegenerative
processes in Mexican Americans and may be a marker of early changes in cognition in
those with normal cognition and at risk for developing MCI.
