Title:Neuropsychiatric Symptoms are Related to Blood-biomarkers in Major
Neurocognitive Disorders
Volume: 17
Issue: 1
Author(s): Inês Marques-Aleixo*, Arnaldina Sampaio, Lucimére Bohn, Flavia Machado, Duarte Barros, Oscár Ribeiro, Joana Carvalho and José Magalhães
Affiliation:
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre for Education and Development, Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculty of Psychology, Education and Sport, Lusófona University, Porto, Portugal
Keywords:
Blood biomarkers, alzheimer disease, dementia, neuropsychiatric inventory questionnaire, seniors, neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS), MNCD.
Abstract:
Background: Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are highly prevalent among individuals
with major neurocognitive disorders (MNCD). Objective: Here, we characterized blood biomarkers
(metabolic, inflammatory, neurotrophic profiles and total antioxidant), body composition, physical
fitness and quality of life (QoL) in individuals with MNCD according to NPS.
Methods: The sample comprised 34 older adults (71.4% women; 74.06±6.03 yrs, with MNCD diagnosis)
categorized according to 50th percentile [Low (≤12) or High (≥13)] for NPS (Neuropsychiatric
Inventory Questionnaire). Sociodemographic, clinical data, body composition, anthropometric, cognitive
assessment (ADAS-Cog), physical fitness (Senior Fitness Test), QoL (QoL-Alzheimer’s Disease
scale) were evaluated, and blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis.
Results: Low compared to high NPS group showed higher levels of IL-6, IGF-1and neurotrophic zscore
(composite of IGF-1, VEGF-1, BDNF). Additionally, low compared to high NPS group have
higher QoL, aerobic fitness and upper body and lower body strength.
Conclusion: The severity of NPS seems to be related to modified neurotrophic and inflammatory
outcomes, lower physical fitness, and poor QoL. Strategies to counteract NPS development may
preserve the physical and mental health of individuals with MNCD.