A groundbreaking blood test designed to detect Alzheimer’s disease earlier and more accurately is currently undergoing trials in the United Kingdom. Patients suspected of having dementia are being recruited through memory clinics nationwide to evaluate the test’s effectiveness within the National Health Service (NHS). Researchers anticipate obtaining results from the study within three years.
This trial is part of the Blood Biomarker Challenge, a multimillion-pound initiative supported by the Alzheimer’s Society, Alzheimer’s Research UK, and the People’s Postcode Lottery. Researchers at University College London (UCL) lead the investigation into whether the test, which measures the protein p-tau217, can enhance both the early detection and accuracy of Alzheimer’s diagnoses.
The p-tau217 protein has shown potential in identifying the presence of two significant proteins in the brain—amyloid and tau—associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Current diagnostic methods, such as positron emission tomography (PET) scans and lumbar punctures, can be more invasive. The new blood test aims to provide a less invasive yet equally effective alternative.
The study will include 1,100 participants from various geographic, ethnic, and economic backgrounds, as well as individuals with other health conditions. This diversity ensures the findings are applicable across a broad population.
Trial Details and Objectives
The Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosis and Plasma pTau217 (Adapt) team, directed by Professor Jonathan Schott and Dr. Ashvini Keshavan, has initiated recruitment at the Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, with 19 additional UK centers expected to join. Participants will undergo blood tests at two different intervals; half will receive their results within three months of their initial memory assessment, while the other half will receive results after 12 months.
The primary goal is to determine if earlier results can expedite the diagnostic process, inform decisions regarding further investigations, and influence how both patients and healthcare providers respond to the findings. Additionally, the study will assess how blood test results impact the quality of life for participants.
Professor Schott, who also serves as the chief medical officer at Alzheimer’s Research UK, expressed enthusiasm about the trial, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome participants onto the Adapt trial—a critical part of the Blood Biomarker Challenge. We hope this will take us a step forward in revolutionising the way we diagnose dementia.”
Challenges in Alzheimer’s Diagnosis
Despite advancements, current diagnostic methods are not widely accessible. Professor Schott highlighted that only approximately 2% of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s have access to these gold-standard diagnostic tests. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for enabling timely access to treatments and planning care, especially as new therapies emerge that may slow the progression of cognitive decline.
Professor Fiona Carragher, chief policy and research officer at the Alzheimer’s Society, noted the significant barriers patients face during the diagnosis process. According to a recent survey, only a third of individuals with dementia reported a positive experience during diagnosis, with many expressing fear regarding the outcome. Late diagnoses often hinder access to critical support and treatment options.
In January 2024, a research team from the University of Oxford and University of Cambridge, also part of the Blood Biomarker Challenge, announced the commencement of a separate suite of tests on dementia patients. This initiative aims to investigate multiple new and existing blood tests across various types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and dementia with Lewy bodies.
As the study progresses, the hope is that this innovative blood test will become a vital tool in the early detection and management of Alzheimer’s disease, ultimately improving the lives of those affected and their families.
