BLOOD TESTS CAN FIND PSYCHIATRIC PROBLEMS
PSYCHIATRIC disorders may one day be diagnosed with a simple blood test! Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine say they’ve identified a method of detecting disease-associated changes in the brain by analyzing genetic material found in extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the blood. The fatty sacs — which are released by all tissues in the body — contain messenger RNA reflecting the gene activity within their tissue of origin.
The team’s study built on the institution’s earlier findings, which determined EV changes in pregnant women who go on to develop postpartum depression.
An analysis of mRNA genetic pathways showed brainspecific mRNAs in EVs were involved in certain functions of the organ.
As a result, the scientists believe such mRNA could be ideal biomarkers for a variety of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders and schizophrenia, which are currently diagnosed following clinical interviews.
Dr. Sarven Sabunciyan — the paper’s senior author — says the goal is now to create a screening tool to detect fluctuations in blood EV mRNAs directly linked to brain changes associated with mental illnesses. Sabunciyan suggests such a tool could enable early detection and help providers deliver timely treatment.
Meanwhile, University of Cambridge researchers say they’ve used a blood biomarker test — combined with a digital mental health assessment — to correctly differentiate bipolar disorder from major depressive disorder.
And scientists at Indiana University say they’ve identified RNA biomarkers in the blood that measure a patient’s risk of developing anxiety — and match them with specific medications and supplements that may be most effective based on their personal biology.