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Updated: Jul 10, 2026
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A Machine Learning Approach to Design an Efficient Selective Screening of Mild Cognitive Impairment
Published on: January 11, 2020
Identifying populations with faster cognitive decline using blood-based biomarkers
James Russell Pike1, Yongmei Liu2, Theresa Chisolm3
1Optimal Aging Institute New York University Grossman School of Medicine New York New York USA.
Alzheimer'S & Dementia (New York, N. Y.)
|July 9, 2026
Summary
Plasma biomarkers can identify older adults with faster cognitive decline. Using these biomarkers, such as neurofilament light, in clinical trials can significantly reduce the number of participants needed to detect cognitive decline interventions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomarkers
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Identifying individuals at risk for cognitive decline is crucial for effective prevention trials.
- The utility of blood-based biomarkers for neurodegeneration, amyloid, and tau in enriching these trials remains unquantified.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the benefits of using plasma biomarkers to enrich population-based prevention trials for cognitive decline.
Main Methods:
- Linear mixed-effects models were used to associate Quanterix SiMoA assay thresholds with cognitive change in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities cohort (N=1826).
- These associations were validated in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis cohort (N=383) and extended to Alamar NULISA assays in the Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders cohort (N=552).
Main Results:
- Elevated plasma biomarker levels, including neurofilament light, were associated with accelerated cognitive decline in dementia-free older adults.
- Selecting participants with Quanterix SiMoA neurofilament light > 30.65 pg/mL reduced the required sample size by 57% to detect a 33% slowing of cognitive decline.
Conclusions:
- Plasma biomarkers can serve as a valuable screening tool in clinical trials.
- Incorporating plasma biomarkers can enhance the statistical power of trials aimed at slowing cognitive decline.
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