Keio University researchers identify blood biomarkers for elderly disability risk

Researchers from Keio University in Japan have identified two blood biomarkers, beta-2-microglobulin (B2M) and cystatin C, that may predict the risk of disability in very elderly individuals. The study, published in the journal ‘GeroScience’ and conducted in collaboration with the U.S. National Institute on Aging (NIA-NIH), suggests that blood analysis could serve as an early warning tool to identify those at risk of losing autonomy.

The study monitored 230 participants aged 85 to 89 over approximately four and a half years. Researchers found that elevated levels of these two proteins were consistently associated with a higher probability of developing functional limitations. These proteins are believed to reflect aging processes such as chronic inflammation and declining renal function.

To validate the findings, the research team applied the results to the InChianti study in Italy, a long-term cohort of older adults. The Italian data confirmed the same trend, showing that higher concentrations of B2M and cystatin C correlated with an increased risk of disability, particularly in individuals over the age of 80.