Researchers have developed a blood test to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease in its early stages. The test detects fragments of a protein called tau, which accumulates in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s. Studies found that levels of this tau fragment, eMTBR-tau243, were higher in people with mild cognitive impairment and dementia than in those with other conditions.
The test has shown promise, performing better than existing tests and potentially helping track the effectiveness of new medications. However, it is not a foolproof test and requires complex scientific methods that are currently only available in specialist laboratories. Experts believe the blood test could be an important tool for monitoring Alzheimer’s disease progression and informing prognosis.
Another study published in Nature Medicine found that the ratio of two proteins in brain fluid was associated with cognitive impairment, independent of levels of amyloid beta plaques and tau tangles. This research may help identify the best medications for individuals and design better clinical trials. The findings suggest a potential breakthrough in diagnosing and treating Alzheimer’s disease.
The development of this blood test is timely, as many countries have recently approved the use of amyloid-targeted therapies to slow Alzheimer’s progression. With the increasing need for accurate and cost-effective diagnostics, this test may provide valuable insights into Alzheimer’s diagnosis and treatment.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/mar/31/new-blood-test-checks-alzheimers-assesses-progression