UK Researchers Trial Blood Test for Alzheimer's Diagnosis

UK researchers are trialing a blood test for Alzheimer's disease that could improve diagnosis accuracy from 70% to over 90%. The test measures p-tau217 protein levels, considered a biomarker of the rogue proteins in the brain. The trial, part of the Blood Biomarker Challenge, aims to investigate the test's effectiveness in the NHS and could revolutionize diagnosis, especially with the emergence of new treatments.

UK researchers are trialing a blood test for Alzheimer's disease that could significantly improve diagnosis accuracy, raising it from 70% to over 90% Alzheimer's blood test could 'revolutionise' diagnosis^[2]. The test, known as ADAPT, measures p-tau217 protein levels, a biomarker of the rogue proteins in the brain. This trial, part of the Blood Biomarker Challenge, aims to investigate the test's effectiveness within the NHS and could revolutionize diagnosis, especially with the emergence of new treatments.

The ADAPT trial is led by scientists at University College London, supported by Alzheimer's Research UK and the Alzheimer's Society, with funding from the People's Postcode Lottery. The study is being conducted at memory clinics across the UK, with half of the participants receiving their blood test results within three months, while the others will be informed after 12 months. The impact of the blood test results on quality of life will also be measured.

This development comes at a critical time as several new drugs to combat early-stage Alzheimer's disease are in the final stages of clinical trials. If successful, the blood test could become a standard part of Alzheimer's diagnosis, enhancing the accuracy and timeliness of diagnoses.