Reconsidering red blood cells as the diagnostic potential for neurodegenerative disorders

Background

Red blood cells (RBCs) are usually considered simple cells and transporters of gases to tissues.

Hypothesis

However, recent research has suggested that RBCs may have diagnostic potential in major neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs).

Results

This review summarizes the current knowledge on changes in RBC in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and other NDDs. It discusses the deposition of neuronal proteins like amyloid-β, tau, and α-synuclein, polyamines, changes in the proteins of RBCs like band-3, membrane transporter proteins, heat shock proteins, oxidative stress biomarkers, and altered metabolic pathways in RBCs during neurodegeneration. It also highlights the comparison of RBC diagnostic markers to other in-market diagnoses and discusses the challenges in utilizing RBCs as diagnostic tools, such as the need for standardized protocols and further validation studies.

Significance statement

The evidence suggests that RBCs have diagnostic potential in neurodegenerative disorders, and this study can pave the foundation for further research which may lead to the development of novel diagnostic approaches and treatments.