FECALZ

Abstract: 

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major neurodegenerative condition, for which diagnosis remains late and invasive. This project aims to develop an early, non-invasive, and reliable diagnostic tool by analyzing AD biomarkers in stool, according to the ATX(N) classification (Amyloid beta, Tau, Neurotoxicity, Inflammation). Our preliminary work on an APP/PS1 mouse model has shown that the intestine plays a key role in eliminating toxic brain proteins, suggesting that these biomarkers could be detected in feces before the appearance of senile plaques and cognitive symptoms. Based on this, we launched a clinical study with 135 participants (healthy volunteers, mild cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer's dementia) in collaboration with the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Grenoble Alpes and the CMRR. Alongside this clinical study, we are dissecting this novel clearance mechanism involving the gut-brain axis and the blood and, above all, lymphatic networks. The expected results will help establish a link between intestinal clearance and AD progression, thus paving the way for accessible screening and early management. The project is supported by the Idex IRGA-Innovation 2023 grant, and a patent is pending to protect this innovation. Ongoing analyses are expected to lead to scientific publications and the validation of this diagnostic approach by 2027.