Using the eye to diagnose Alzheimer's disease.
What is it about?
As an extension of the central nervous system, the eye shares some structural and functional similarities with the brain. The retina is the light sensing tissue at the back of the eye, with a direct connection to the brain. This research investigates how retinal features might indicate early signs of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s. By utilizing hyperspectral imaging, this study examines the potential of using the retina to reveal changes associated with brain amyloid-β protein accumulation, a key indicator of Alzheimer's.
Why is it important?
The ageing population has meant more cases of Alzheimer's disease. While effective interventions are steadily being researched, there is still the problem of diagnosis. There is consensus that early detection is needed in order for these interventions to be most effective. With current methods, it is difficult to conduct widespread screening due to the large economic and time costs involved. This research suggests that it may be possible to screen for at risk individuals by using retina imaging. This can be done in a more economic and non-invasive manner, could enable monitoring of the disease.