Identification of Diagnosis Biomarkers in the Tears of Alzheimer's Disease Patients: The COG-EYE Pilot Study

Launched by UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL, TOURS · Oct 24, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The COG-EYE Pilot Study is a clinical trial aimed at finding new ways to diagnose Alzheimer's disease (AD) by analyzing biomarkers, which are substances that can indicate the presence of the disease, in human tears. Traditionally, diagnosing AD involves more invasive procedures, like a lumbar puncture (spinal tap), or brain imaging. This study explores whether examining tears can provide an easier and less invasive method for identifying AD, especially in patients with mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Researchers hope to compare specific proteins and lipid profiles in the tears of Alzheimer's patients with those of healthy individuals.

To participate in this study, individuals must be at least 18 years old, be part of the French Social Security system, and provide informed consent. However, certain people may not be eligible, including pregnant women, those with other serious eye conditions, or anyone using eye drops that could affect tear production. Participants will be asked to collect tear samples, which is a simple and non-invasive process. This research could potentially lead to better and earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, making it easier for patients to receive the care they need.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age ≥18 years
• • Participant affiliated in French Social Security scheme
• • Informed and written consent from the participant
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Pregnant or breastfeeding woman
• • Participant under judicial protection measures
• • Participant under guardianship or curatorship
• * Contraindications to participation in the research:
• • Other neurodegenerative disease Any eye drops or treatment that may interfere with tear production Occasional or permanent contact lens use within the last 3 months Eye surgery ≤3 months Any ocular pathology other than refractive errors, oculomotor disorders, amblyopia Any general pathology other than AD with ocular implications
• • -Inability to perform tear collection