# Neurodegenerative disease biomarker research > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/neurodegenerative-disease-biomarker-research > Updated: 2026-10-12T01:12:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Medical research is advancing the identification of early biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, specifically Alzheimer’s disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Studies involving individuals with Down syndrome have identified that levels of the protein beta-synuclein begin to rise approximately two decades before the typical onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms. This elevation is linked to cortical atrophy and memory impairment, suggesting it may serve as a marker for early synaptic dysfunction. Additionally, research into early-onset Alzheimer’s has identified patterns of health issues—including depression, dizziness, headaches, epilepsy, and thyroid disorders—that appear more frequently in the years preceding a diagnosis. Meanwhile, investigations into ALS continue to focus on determining whether the disease originates in motor neurons, muscles, or other biological components to facilitate the development of targeted therapies. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-12: Research identifies potential early indicators of Alzheimer disease New research highlights potential early indicators of Alzheimer disease, including specific health patterns in younger adults and β-synuclein protein changes in individuals with Down syndrome. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/research-identifies-potential-early-indicators-of-alzheimer-disease ### 2026-10-08: Researchers identify early biomarkers for Alzheimer's and ALS New research highlights beta-synuclein as an early Alzheimer's biomarker in Down syndrome, while scientists investigate the biological origins of ALS to improve early diagnosis. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/researchers-identify-early-biomarkers-for-alzheimers-and-als --- Cite as: Neurodegenerative disease biomarker research. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/neurodegenerative-disease-biomarker-research