Longevity - Brain
NeuroDegeneration & NeuroProtection
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Longevity Brain Glial Blood Test
Glial cells, often referred to as glia or neuroglia, are non-neuronal cells in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) that do not produce electrical impulses. They are crucial for providing support and protection for neurons, the primary cells responsible for communication within the nervous system. Glial cells outnumber neurons by about ten to one, highlighting their importance in neural function. The main types of glial cells, each with distinct functions, include astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, and Schwann cells.
Currently, while there is no direct blood test that can measure microglial or overall glial activity in the brain with high specificity, glial activity can be indirectly inferred through blood biomarkers that indicate glial activation or neuroinflammation. This test measures some of those biomarkers.
Longevity Brain Blood Test: 18 Analytes tested: Alpha-Synuclein, Amyloid Beta (Aβ) Peptides 42/40, Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Interleukin-10 (IL-10), Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), Matrix Metalloproteinase 8 (MMP8), Neurofilament Light Chain (NfL), Phosphorylated Tau 181 (p-T181), Phosphorylated Tau 217 (p-T217), Soluble TREM2 (sTREM2), S100 Calcium-Binding Protein B (S100B), Total Tau Proteins (t-tau), Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), YKL-40 (Chitinase 3-like-1)
Price: $410.00
Price includes convenient home collection kit for sample collection from the comfort of your home
Longevity Brain Supplement: Our unique science-based formulation enhances cognitive function, brain health, and mood by increasing BDNF production when taken.
Longevity Brain Supplement: 30-day supply
Price: $69.00
Longevity Alzheimer's Disease Blood Test
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the gradual decline in cognitive function and memory loss. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for approximately 60-70% of cases. AD typically manifests in older adults, although early-onset forms can occur.
The hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease include the accumulation of abnormal protein aggregates in the brain, namely beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles. These pathological changes lead to neuronal damage and loss, disrupting communication between brain cells and impairing cognitive processes.
In Alzheimer’s disease (AD), abnormal accumulation of tau proteins within neurons is one of the key pathological hallmarks, alongside the deposition of beta-amyloid plaques. Tau proteins are essential for maintaining the structural integrity and function of neurons. However, in AD, tau proteins undergo abnormal changes, leading to the formation of insoluble aggregates known as neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) inside neurons.
In Alzheimer’s disease, there is a decrease in the levels of acetylcholine due to the loss of cholinergic neurons in the brain. By inhibiting the enzyme cholinesterase, which breaks down acetylcholine, it is possible to maintain higher levels of acetylcholine in the brain, thereby improving communication between neurons and temporarily enhancing cognitive function.
Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a marker of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, which are processes implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s ability to neutralize them with antioxidants. In Alzheimer’s disease, increased oxidative stress leads to damage to cellular components, including lipids, proteins, and DNA, contributing to neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration.
Longevity Alzheimer’s Disease Blood Test: 8 Analytes tested: Amyloid Beta (Aβ) Peptides 42/40, Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Choline, Malondialdehyde (MDA), Neurofilament Light Chain (NfL), Phosphorylated Tau 181 (p-T181), Phosphorylated Tau 217 (p-T217), Total Tau Proteins (t-tau)
Price: $299.00
Price includes convenient home collection kit for sample collection from the comfort of your home
Longevity Brain Supplement: Our unique science-based formulation enhances cognitive function, brain health, and mood by increasing BDNF production when taken.
Longevity Brain Supplement: 30-day supply
Price: $69.00
Amyloid Beta (Aβ) Peptides 42/40
Amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides 42/40 refer to specific variants of amyloid beta peptides, which are short fragments of a larger protein called amyloid precursor protein (APP). Amyloid beta peptides are central to the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain.
Aβ peptides are typically 40 or 42 amino acids in length, with Aβ42 being slightly longer than Aβ40. Aβ42 is more hydrophobic and prone to aggregation compared to Aβ40, making it more likely to form the insoluble fibrils that contribute to the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain.
The measurement of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides, specifically Aβ42 and the ratio of Aβ42 to Aβ40 (Aβ42/40 ratio), serves as a valuable biomarker in the diagnosis and assessment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative disorders. Both Aβ42 and the Aβ42/40 ratio have distinct roles and provide complementary information:
- Aβ42 Levels: Aβ42 is particularly important in AD pathology because it is more prone to aggregation and is a major component of amyloid plaques found in the brains of individuals with AD. Low levels of Aβ42 in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or abnormal levels in blood samples are indicative of increased amyloid deposition and are associated with the presence and progression of AD.
- Aβ42/40 Ratio: The Aβ42/40 ratio is calculated by dividing the concentration of Aβ42 by the concentration of Aβ40. This ratio accounts for individual variations in total Aβ production and provides a more robust measure of amyloid pathology compared to measuring Aβ42 levels alone. A lower Aβ42/40 ratio is associated with increased amyloid deposition and a higher risk of developing AD, making it a valuable biomarker for disease detection and monitoring.
- The ratio of Aβ42 to Aβ40 is important in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. In healthy individuals, Aβ peptides are cleared from the brain efficiently, preventing the accumulation of amyloid plaques. However, in individuals with AD, there is an imbalance in the production and clearance of Aβ peptides, leading to the accumulation of Aβ42 and the formation of toxic oligomers and fibrils.
- Measurement of Aβ42/40 ratio in blood samples is used as a biomarker for AD, as alterations in this ratio are associated with the presence and progression of the disease. A lower Aβ42/40 ratio is indicative of increased amyloid deposition and a higher risk of developing AD.
This test reports on Aβ40, Aβ42 and the ratio of Aβ42/40
Price: $189.00
Price includes convenient home collection kit for sample collection from the comfort of your home
Longevity Brain Supplement: Our unique science-based formulation enhances cognitive function, brain health, and mood by increasing BDNF production when taken.
Longevity Brain Supplement: 30-day supply
Price: $69.00
Longevity Alzheimer's Disease DNA Test
Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is a protein involved in the transport and metabolism of lipids in the body, including cholesterol. There are three main isoforms of the ApoE protein: ApoE2, ApoE3, and ApoE4, encoded by different alleles of the APOE gene. Among these isoforms, ApoE4 is recognized as a major genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
Carrying one copy of the ApoE4 allele (heterozygous) increases the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, while having two copies (homozygous) further elevates the risk. Individuals with the ApoE4 allele tend to develop Alzheimer’s disease at an earlier age compared to those without the allele, and they are more likely to develop a more aggressive form of the disease.
Research shows that ApoE4 may promote the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques, a hallmark feature of AD, by impairing the clearance of beta-amyloid from the brain. Additionally, ApoE4 has been implicated in disrupting synaptic function, promoting neuroinflammation, and impairing mitochondrial function, all of which contribute to neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease.
Longevity Alzheimer’s Disease DNA Test: APOE4 (Apolipoprotein E4) Allele Testing
Price: $99.00
Price includes convenient home collection kit for sample collection from the comfort of your home
Longevity Brain Supplement: Our unique science-based formulation enhances cognitive function, brain health, and mood by increasing BDNF production when taken.
Longevity Brain Supplement: 30-day supply
Price: $69.00
Types of Glial Cells And Their Functions
Glial cells reside in both the central and peripheral nervous systems, playing essential roles in supporting and maintaining the proper function of neural networks.
Astrocytes
Location: Central Nervous System (CNS)
Functions: Astrocytes are star-shaped cells that play several roles, including supporting blood-brain barrier (BBB) maintenance, providing nutrients to nervous tissue, and playing a role in the repair and scarring process of the brain and spinal cord after traumatic injuries. They also regulate ion concentrations in the extracellular space and are involved in neurotransmitter uptake and recycling.
Oligodendrocytes
Location: Central Nervous System (CNS)
Functions: Oligodendrocytes are responsible for the formation and maintenance of the myelin sheath in the CNS. This sheath is a fatty layer that wraps around the axons of neurons, greatly increasing the speed and efficiency of electrical signal transmission. Each oligodendrocyte can extend its processes to multiple neurons, myelinating segments of several different axons.
Microglia
Location: Central Nervous System (CNS)
Functions: Microglia are the resident macrophages of the brain and spinal cord, acting as the first and main form of active immune defense in the CNS. They monitor the CNS environment for signs of infection or damage and can engulf and destroy pathogens and debris through phagocytosis. Microglia also play significant roles in inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases.
Schwann Cells
Location: Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
Functions: Schwann cells are responsible for myelinating axons in the PNS, similar to how oligodendrocytes function in the CNS. Each Schwann cell wraps around a single axon to form the myelin sheath, enhancing the speed of nerve impulse transmission. Schwann cells also play a crucial role in the regeneration of nerve fibers.
Satellite Cells
Location: Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
Functions: Satellite cells surround neuron cell bodies within ganglia in the PNS, providing support and nutrition to the neurons, regulating their microenvironment, and protecting them from toxic substances.
Ependymal Cells
Location: Central Nervous System (CNS)
Functions: Ependymal cells line the ventricles of the brain and the spinal cord canal. They are involved in the production, circulation, and monitoring of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which cushions the brain and spinal cord and removes waste products.
Currently, while there is no direct blood test that can measure microglial or overa
Low Levels Of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) And Long COVID Syndrome
Low serum BDNF levels correlate with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. In addition, during a patient’s recovery, BDNF levels were restored. BDNF levels serve as a biomarker for the severity or progression of Long COVID, especially regarding neurological symptoms.
Long COVID refers to the lingering symptoms experienced by some individuals after the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection. Here’s how BDNF is relevant to Long COVID:
Neurological Symptoms in Long COVID: Many individuals with Long COVID experience neurological symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, headaches, and even depression or anxiety. Since BDNF is crucial for brain health, including cognitive function and mood regulation, changes in BDNF levels or activity could contribute to these neurological symptoms.
BDNF and Neuroinflammation: Long COVID may involve elements of neuroinflammation. BDNF has neuroprotective properties and plays a role in modulating neuroinflammatory responses. Therefore, altered BDNF signaling can influence the progression or severity of neuroinflammatory aspects of Long COVID.
Role in Synaptic Plasticity and Repair: BDNF is important for synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis. In the context of Long COVID, where neural networks may be disrupted, BDNF could play a role in neural repair and the restoration of normal brain function.
Stress Response: Long COVID can be a stressful experience, both physically and psychologically. BDNF is known to be affected by stress, which could in turn impact its levels and function in individuals with Long COVID.
Interactions with Other Systems: BDNF interacts with various other physiological systems that could be impacted by Long COVID, including the immune system and the endocrine system. These interactions influence the overall health outcomes in Long COVID.
High levels Of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF): - Positive Effects On Brain Health And Function
High levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) are generally associated with positive effects on brain health and function. Here are some of the key impacts and potential benefits of elevated BDNF levels:
Enhanced Neuroplasticity: BDNF is crucial for neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form and reorganize synaptic connections, especially in response to learning and memory. Higher levels of BDNF can enhance this process, potentially improving learning and memory capabilities.
Neuroprotection: Elevated BDNF levels offer neuroprotective benefits. They help in the survival and maintenance of neurons, and can protect against neurodegenerative processes and damage from neurotoxic substances.
Improved Mood and Cognitive Function: High levels of BDNF are associated with better mood regulation and cognitive function. BDNF has been linked to a decreased risk of mood disorders like depression and anxiety.
Support in Recovery from Neurological Injury: After brain injury or in neurodegenerative diseases, increased BDNF can aid in the recovery and regeneration of neural tissue.
Enhanced Synaptic Transmission: BDNF facilitates synaptic transmission, thereby improving the efficiency of neural communication.
Stress Resilience: BDNF can enhance the brain’s resilience to stress, improving the ability to cope with stressful situations and potentially reducing the impact of stress on mental health.
Potential in Treating Neurological Disorders: Given its neuroprotective and neurogenerative properties, BDNF is being studied for its potential in treating conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke.
Exercise and Diet Effects: Physical activity and certain diets (like those rich in omega-3 fatty acids) can increase BDNF levels, contributing to improved brain health and function.
While high BDNF levels are generally beneficial, it’s important to note that BDNF activity in the brain is finely tuned and context-dependent. Extremely high levels of BDNF in certain contexts or diseases could potentially have negative effects, although this is an area that requires more research. The balance and regulation of BDNF are critical for its beneficial effects.
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), Microglia And Neuroinflammation
The relationship between Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and microglia in the brain is an area of active research, highlighting the complex interactions within the nervous system. Microglia are a type of glial cell that act as the main form of active immune defense in the central nervous system. Here’s how BDNF and microglia interact and influence each other:
Microglial Activation: BDNF can influence the activation state of microglia. Microglia exist in various states of activation, ranging from a resting state to an active state. The active state is usually in response to injury, infection, or disease, and in this state, microglia can release various cytokines and growth factors, including BDNF.
Neuroprotection and Inflammation: BDNF released by microglia can have neuroprotective effects. It promotes the survival and health of neurons and can modulate the inflammatory response of microglia. This modulation is important in conditions like neurodegenerative diseases, where inflammation plays a key role.
BDNF in Microglial Function: BDNF influences the functioning of microglia. It can affect their proliferation, migration, and phagocytic activity. These activities are crucial for the role of microglia in maintaining brain health, clearing debris, and responding to injury or disease.
Impact on Synaptic Plasticity: Microglia are involved in synaptic pruning and remodeling, processes that are essential for synaptic plasticity. BDNF, released by neurons and microglia, plays a role in these processes, influencing learning and memory.
Response to Brain Injury: Following brain injury, microglia are activated and can release BDNF as part of the response to injury. This release can aid in the repair and recovery processes of the brain.
Involvement in Disease States: In various disease states, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis, the interaction between BDNF and microglia can be altered. Understanding these alterations is important for developing therapeutic strategies.
Bidirectional Communication: There is a bidirectional communication between neurons and microglia, where BDNF plays a role. Neurons can influence microglial activity, and microglia can affect neuronal health, partly mediated by BDNF.
In summary, the interaction between BDNF and microglia is multifaceted, influencing neuroinflammation, neuroprotection, synaptic plasticity, and responses to brain injury. This interaction is a significant area of interest in understanding and treating various neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Kynurenine Pathway of Tryptophan Metabolism and Neuroinflammation
The kynurenine pathway (KP) of tryptophan metabolism plays a crucial role in the balance between neuroprotection and neurotoxicity. Dysregulation of this pathway has been associated with several neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders, largely due to the potential role of KP metabolites in mediating neuroinflammation.
- Initiation of the Pathway: The metabolism of tryptophan via the kynurenine pathway begins with its conversion into kynurenine. This step is catalyzed by two primary enzymes: indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO). Both enzymes can be induced by pro-inflammatory stimuli, especially IDO, which is upregulated by pro-inflammatory cytokines like interferon-gamma (IFN-γ).
- Neuroactive Metabolites:
- Kynurenic Acid (KYNA): Produced in astrocytes, KYNA acts as an antagonist at NMDA and α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. It has neuroprotective effects but, in elevated concentrations, might also contribute to cognitive dysfunctions.
- Quinolinic Acid (QUIN): This is synthesized in microglia and acts as an NMDA receptor agonist. Elevated levels can lead to excitotoxicity, which is damaging to neurons and is associated with several neurodegenerative conditions.
- Neuroinflammation: An imbalance favoring the production of QUIN over KYNA can contribute to neuroinflammation. QUIN’s agonistic action on NMDA receptors can lead to excitotoxic neuronal death. Moreover, QUIN can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and exacerbate inflammation. Chronic inflammation can upregulate IDO, leading to a sustained increase in kynurenine metabolites, which further skews the balance towards neurotoxic effects.
- Role in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Dysregulation of the kynurenine pathway is observed in various neurodegenerative conditions, including:
- Alzheimer’s Disease (AD): Elevated levels of QUIN and reduced KYNA levels have been reported in the brains of AD patients. QUIN can promote amyloid-beta aggregation, a hallmark of AD pathology.
- Parkinson’s Disease (PD): KP dysregulation is suggested to be involved in the dopaminergic neuronal loss characteristic of PD.
- Huntington’s Disease (HD): Elevated QUIN levels have been observed in the brains of HD patients and are believed to contribute to the striatal neurodegeneration seen in HD.
- Neuropsychiatric Implications: Changes in the KP have also been associated with neuropsychiatric disorders like depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. The balance between KYNA and QUIN can influence neurotransmission, synaptic plasticity, and neural integrity, potentially leading to mood and cognitive disturbances.
Test Details
Microglia are a type of glial cell that act as the main form of active immune defense in the central nervous system.
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) plays a significant role in the context of neuroinflammation, an inflammatory response within the brain or spinal cord. Neuroinflammation is a characteristic feature of various neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and even in response to traumatic brain injury. Clinical studies show that levels of BDNF are decreased in the presence of neuroinflammation and also in cases of long COVID. Increasing BDNF levels have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects throughout the human body.
Here’s how BDNF interacts with neuroinflammation:
Neuroprotective Effects: BDNF has neuroprotective properties. It supports the survival and function of neurons and can promote healing and recovery in the nervous system. In conditions of neuroinflammation, BDNF can help mitigate neuronal damage.
Modulation of Inflammatory Responses: BDNF can influence the immune cells in the brain, including microglia (the primary immune cells in the CNS) and astrocytes. By affecting these cells, BDNF can potentially modulate inflammatory responses within the brain.
Impact on Microglial Activation: Microglia, when activated in response to injury or disease, can release pro-inflammatory cytokines that exacerbate neuroinflammation. BDNF can modulate microglial activation, potentially reducing the release of these pro-inflammatory factors.
BDNF in Neurodegenerative Diseases: In neurodegenerative diseases characterized by chronic neuroinflammation, BDNF levels are often found to be altered. Enhancing BDNF signaling in these conditions might be a potential therapeutic strategy to counteract neuroinflammation and its deleterious effects on neurons.
Involvement in Recovery and Repair: BDNF not only helps protect neurons from inflammatory damage but also supports neurogenesis (the growth of new neurons) and synaptic plasticity, which are crucial for recovery and repair in the nervous system.
Balance and Regulation: The relationship between BDNF and neuroinflammation is complex and involves a balance. While BDNF generally has protective and anti-inflammatory effects, its role can vary depending on the context and stage of disease or injury.
Therapeutic Potential: Understanding how BDNF interacts with pathways involved in neuroinflammation opens up potential therapeutic avenues, especially for conditions where neuroinflammation is a key pathological feature.
In summary, BDNF is an important modulator of neuroinflammatory processes, with the potential to both protect against and mitigate the effects of inflammation in the nervous system. Its role in neurodegenerative diseases and conditions involving neuroinflammation makes it a significant target for research and potential therapeutic intervention.
1 Analyte Tested
- Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a protein that plays a crucial role in the brain and nervous system. Its functions are diverse and significant, impacting various aspects of neural health and activity. Here are some of the key functions of BDNF:
Neuronal Development and Survival: BDNF supports the growth and differentiation of new neurons (neurogenesis) and helps maintain the survival of existing neurons. This is crucial during brain development and for the regeneration and repair of neurons throughout life.
Synaptic Plasticity: BDNF is vital for synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of synapses (the connections between neurons) to strengthen or weaken over time. Synaptic plasticity is essential for learning and memory.
Cognitive Function: By promoting synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis, BDNF plays a significant role in cognitive functions such as learning, memory, and higher-order thinking.
Mood Regulation: BDNF levels are linked with mood regulation. Low levels of BDNF are associated with mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder. Many antidepressant drugs appear to exert their effects, at least in part, by increasing BDNF levels.
Response to Stress: BDNF helps the brain adapt to stress. Chronic stress can reduce the production of BDNF, potentially contributing to the development of mood disorders.
Neuroprotection: BDNF has neuroprotective properties, helping to protect neurons from damage under conditions such as oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, and inflammation.
Exercise and Brain Health: Physical exercise increases the production of BDNF, which is one of the reasons why regular physical activity is beneficial for brain health and cognitive function.
Role in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Given its role in neuronal survival and plasticity, BDNF is a molecule of interest in the context of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Reduced BDNF levels have been observed in these conditions.
High levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) are generally associated with positive effects on brain health and function. Here are some of the key impacts and potential benefits of elevated BDNF levels:
Enhanced Neuroplasticity: BDNF is crucial for neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form and reorganize synaptic connections, especially in response to learning and memory. Higher levels of BDNF can enhance this process, potentially improving learning and memory capabilities.
Neuroprotection: Elevated BDNF levels offer neuroprotective benefits. They help in the survival and maintenance of neurons, and can protect against neurodegenerative processes and damage from neurotoxic substances.
Improved Mood and Cognitive Function: High levels of BDNF are associated with better mood regulation and cognitive function. BDNF has been linked to a decreased risk of mood disorders like depression and anxiety.
Support in Recovery from Neurological Injury: After brain injury or in neurodegenerative diseases, increased BDNF can aid in the recovery and regeneration of neural tissue.
Enhanced Synaptic Transmission: BDNF facilitates synaptic transmission, thereby improving the efficiency of neural communication.
Stress Resilience: BDNF can enhance the brain’s resilience to stress, improving the ability to cope with stressful situations and potentially reducing the impact of stress on mental health.
Potential in Treating Neurological Disorders: Given its neuroprotective and neurogenerative properties, BDNF is being studied for its potential in treating conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke.
Exercise and Diet Effects: Physical activity and certain diets (like those rich in omega-3 fatty acids) can increase BDNF levels, contributing to improved brain health and function.
While high BDNF levels are generally beneficial, it’s important to note that BDNF activity in the brain is finely tuned and context-dependent. Extremely high levels of BDNF in certain contexts or diseases could potentially have negative effects, although this is an area that requires more research. The balance and regulation of BDNF are critical for its beneficial effects.
- SST tube of blood
24 – 72 hours
Price: $99.00
