P-tau217 as a Biomarker in Alzheimer's Disease: Applications in Latin American Populations

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the primary dementia causes worldwide. For this reason, there is a need for plasma-based diagnostic biomarkers to facilitate the timely diagnosis of AD. This work synthesizes the current evidence concerning the tau protein p-tau phosphorylated at threonine 217 (p-tau217) as an emerging biomarker, emphasizing its utility in preclinical phases and its potential application in Latin American populations. The findings indicate that p-tau217 has superior sensitivity and specificity compared to classical biomarkers such as p-tau181 and Aβ42. Likewise, its plasma concentration regulates neuropathological progression, as studies by Braak have shown, enabling it to identify alterations from the early stages. In Latin America, studies in Peru, Colombia, and Brazil have shown promising results, albeit with methodological limitations. Some of them have small sample sizes or lack neuroimaging confirmation. Additionally, clinical factors common in the region, such as hypertension, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease, may alter the clinical interpretation. In short, p-tau217 represents a potential non-invasive diagnostic resource. More diverse cohorts are needed to confirm its validity in daily clinical practice.