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Updated: Feb 26, 2026
Visualization of Amyloid β Deposits in the Human Brain with Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Imaging Mass Spectrometry
Published on: March 7, 2019
Amyloid β concentrations and stable isotope labeling kinetics of human plasma specific to central nervous system
Vitaliy Ovod1, Kara N Ramsey1, Kwasi G Mawuenyega1
1Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
Introduction:
Cerebrospinal fluid analysis and other measurements of amyloidosis, such as amyloid-binding positron emission tomography studies, are limited by cost and availability. There is a need for a more practical amyloid β (Aβ) biomarker for central nervous system amyloid deposition.
Methods:
We adapted our previously reported stable isotope labeling kinetics protocol to analyze the turnover kinetics and concentrations of Aβ38, Aβ40, and Aβ42 in human plasma.
Results:
Aβ isoforms have a half-life of approximately 3 hours in plasma. Aβ38 demonstrated faster turnover kinetics compared with Aβ40 and Aβ42. Faster fractional turnover of Aβ42 relative to Aβ40 and lower Aβ42 and Aβ42/Aβ40 concentrations in amyloid-positive participants were observed.
Discussion:
Blood plasma Aβ42 shows similar amyloid-associated alterations as we have previously reported in cerebrospinal fluid, suggesting a blood-brain transportation mechanism of Aβ. The stability and sensitivity of plasma Aβ measurements suggest this may be a useful screening test for central nervous system amyloidosis.
