Alzheimer's disease plasma biomarkers and physical functioning in a diverse sample of adults

The relationship between Alzheimer's disease (AD) plasma biomarkers, and physical functioning (PF) across diverse races and ethnicities remains unclear. This study aims to explore this association in an ethno-racially diverse sample of cognitively unimpaired community-dwelling adults.

Data clinical examinations, neuropsychological tests, blood draws, and PF exams (Timed Up and Go [TUG] and Short Physical Performance Battery [SPPB]) were analyzed. Multivariable linear regressions assessed the association between PF and AD plasma biomarkers (amyloid beta [Aβ]40, Aβ42, total tau [t-tau], neurofiliament light chain [NfL]).

The sample (n = 2358; mean age 64.7 years; 65.9% female), was 20% African American, 41.9% non-Hispanic White, and 38.1% Hispanic. Findings indicate that worse PF is linked to higher biomarker levels (p < 0.05). Associations differed by race and ethnicity group. TUG time was associated (p < 0.05) with Aβ40, Aβ42, and tau among non-Hispanic Whites, whereas SPPB scores were associated (p < 0.05) with t-tau and NfL among African Americans.

PF, ethnic/racial, and plasma AD biomarker data should be used to aid in developing risk profiles for neurodegenerative diseases.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers are associated with physical functioning (PF) Ethno-racial variation exists in AD biomarker and PF associations Race and ethnicity should considered when assessing neurodegenerative disease risk.