Mood Disorders May Be Early Signs of Alzheimer’s, New Research Suggests
June 26, 2025 – Emerging research indicates a potential link between mood disorders in the elderly – specifically depression and bipolar disorder – and the early stages of degenerative dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. A study published June 9, 2025, in Alzheimer’s and Dementia [[source]], suggests these mood disorders could be prodromal manifestations – early symptoms preceding full-blown dementia.
Researchers from the National Institute for Quantum and radiological Sciences and technology (Japan) investigated levels of tau and beta-amyloid protein – key biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease – in 52 individuals with mood disorders and 47 healthy participants. The findings revealed a significantly higher prevalence of abnormal tau protein accumulation in those with mood disorders.
Key Findings:
Tau Protein Accumulation: 50% of participants with bipolar disorder or depression showed abnormal tau protein buildup in the brain, compared to only 15% in the control group [[source]].
Concentrated Impact: This tau accumulation was notably concentrated in brain regions critical for cognitive function [[source]].
Late-Onset Depression: Imaging showed 60% of participants with late-onset depression exhibited these tau protein abnormalities.
Validation Through Autopsy: The neuroimaging results were validated by analyzing brain tissue from 208 autopsies.
What This Means:
While not all individuals with mood disorders will develop Alzheimer’s, these findings suggest a potential pathway where underlying Alzheimer’s pathology may contribute to the growth of mood symptoms. This research underscores the importance of investigating potential cognitive changes in elderly patients presenting with new or worsening mood disorders.
As diagnostic methods for Alzheimer’s improve, it’s becoming possible to identify the disease earlier in life [[1]].Early diagnosis allows for better understanding of the disease progression and can definitely help individuals and their families prepare for the future [[2]]. Furthermore, identifying Alzheimer’s-related changes even in the mildest stages, like mild cognitive impairment, is now possible using the same biomarkers [[3]].
Call to Action:
If you or a loved one is experiencing new or worsening mood symptoms, particularly later in life, consult with a healthcare professional to discuss potential underlying causes and explore appropriate evaluation and support.
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