C‐type lectin‐like receptor 2 and zonulin are associated with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease

Objective Increased permeability and changes in gut microbiota contributed to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Zonulin is a key modulator that regulates intestinal barrier function. Peripheral platelet alterations have been involved in AD pathology. C‐type lectin‐like receptor 2 (CLEC‐2) is a receptor on the platelet surface for activation. The purpose of this study was to determine zonulin and CLEC‐2 levels in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD, and investigate the relationship between zonulin and CLEC‐2. Methods In this study, CLEC‐2 and zonulin levels were measured using ELISA assay in 110 AD patients, 110 MCI patients, and 110 non‐demented control subjects. Results Increased CLEC‐2 and zonulin levels were observed in MCI and AD patients. Furthermore, AD patients had higher CLEC‐2 and zonulin levels compared with MCI patients. In addition, CLEC‐2 levels were positively correlated with zonulin levels, after adjusting confounding factors (r = .592, P