Publication:

Plasma levels of vitamin B12, epidermal growth factor and tumor necrosis factor alpha in patients with alzheimer dementia

Background It was previously reported that vitamin B12 (Vit B12) has the regulatory effects on epidermal growth factor (EGF) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). The role of Vit B12, EGF and TNF-α in the pathogenesis of alzheimer dementia has not been elucidated yet. In this study the plasma Vit B12, EGF and TNF-α level were examined in individuals, between 65-99 years old with and without alzheimer dementia (AD).

Methods The study group comprised 47 patients with AD and 38 cases without dementia. EGF and TNF-α were analyzed by ELISA, and Vit B12 was analyzed by chemiluminescence method.

Results Vit B12 and EGF levels were significantly lower (p<0.0001), whereas TNF-α levels were significantly higher (p<0.0001) in the AD group in comparison to those without AD.

Conclusions Our results suggest that Vit B12, EGF and TNF-α may have a role in the pathophysiology of AD.