Scientists may have found a disturbing way Alzheimer’s can spread

Story by Thomas Westerholm

 •Scientists are investigating whether proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease could potentially spread from one person to another through blood transfusions.

A new report published in The Lancet reviewed evidence that amyloid-beta—the abnormal protein that accumulates in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s—could potentially be transferred through donated blood.

The researchers clarified that this remains unproven and that there is not yet enough evidence to quantify the potential risk. However, they said, the possibility warrants further investigation.

“Blood transfusions are important and save many lives,” University College London neurologist John Collinge said in a press release.

“However, to ensure that they are as safe as they can possibly be, it’s important that we thoroughly investigate any potential risks.”

Stock image: Alzheimer’s disease in a 3D rendering.

Information in the Blood

Alzheimer’s has long been considered a sporadic disease, spurred on by a confluence of factors that include age, genetics and lifestyle.

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Newsweek has previously covered research showing that blood tests could potentially spot Alzheimer’s years before symptoms emerge, giving patients valuable time to prepare and start treatments.

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