This is a very interesting article. In a large cohort (n > 1000), it shows that astrocyte reactivity as measured by plasma GFAP is necessary for tau deposition and neuronal degeneration in amyloid positive individuals. We already know from post mortem studies that almost cognitively normal people have amyloid in their brain, and this might show us why.

Fig. 1: Astrocyte reactivity influences Aβ-dependent tau phosphorylation

Fig. 2: Astrocyte reactivity impacts the association of Aβ with tau–PET deposition

Wow, really explains the expression of dementia doesn't it? Once it passes the maintenance breakpoint, off it goes.

Focus really needs to be on making sure we don't reach that stage, would be great if GFAP and/or s100b were part of standard blood panels.

Thank you for posting, I also find it very interesting. Need to read the details though. Luckily the full article is available so I will check it out later today.

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Omg this is so interesting