biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease

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As the life expectancy is increasing due to higher living standards and efficient prevention and treatment of other diseases, the prevalence of AD is predicted to rise dramatically within the next years and place it among the major public health concerns. The number of people worldwide with dementia was estimated to be 35.6 million in 2010 by the World Health Organization. This is projected to nearly double every 20 years, to 65.7 million in 2030 and 115.4 million in 2050. Non-invasive samples such as urine, saliva, nasal fluids, hair and nail clippings are readily available, and often disposed of on a daily basis. The volunteer collection, transportation and storage of such samples are much easier if compared to those required for blood or cerebrospinal fluid. Moreover, current developments of diagnostic devices based on small sensors and ion selective electrodes, to be used at the point-of-care or at point of discharge of non-invasive samples, have the potential to disseminate the diagnostic tools to a large fraction of the population in the near future. Remotely connected sensors installed in public toilets and sanitary sewer systems could provide valuable information for public health agencies and policy makers. Sensitive and long lasting sensors together with wearable electronics incorporated into advanced textiles have an unimaginable potential. The life standards will experience another significant forward push if such resources become accessible.

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