British scientists have identified a blood protein that may indicate the development of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease – years before symptoms appear.

The findings, by King's College London researchers, could offer new clues to individuals at risk of developing dementia who might benefit from early drug treatments.

The new research, published today in Translational Psychiatry, is based on an analysis of the medical records of more than 100 sets of identical twins from twins, Medical Xpress reports.

The scientists identified a link between low levels of the blood protein MAPKAPK5 and a 10-year decline in cognitive ability. The protein was one of 1,000 analyzed by the researchers.

Although there are currently no treatments that prevent or cure Alzheimer's disease, several drugs can slow its progression. But those medications are most effective when given early. The British researchers suggested the findings could lead to new ways to help prevent the disease’s development and progression.

“Although we are still searching for an effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease, what we do know is that prevention of the disease is likely to be more effective than trying to reverse it,” said lead researcher Steven Kiddle, M.D. “The next step will be to confirm whether or not our initial finding is specific for Alzheimer's disease, as this could lead to the development of a reliable blood test which would help clinicians identify suitable people for prevention trials.”