Thursday, January 14, 2016

Weird Diagnostic Science

I considered titling this post "Odd Smelling Mouse Pee" as that is what the US News article considers.
Researchers for the study (snip) observed mice who were given chemical treatment meant to mimic the abnormal brain activity of people with Alzheimer's.

These mice had a urine odor distinct from the urine of mice who were not given the chemical.

The difference in odor was detectable even before researchers could identify plaque build-up in the mice's brains, an indicator meant to simulate Alzheimer's symptoms.
Meaning a urine test for early stage Alzheimer's may be possible some day.