Labcorp Launches New Blood Test for Early Alzheimer’s Detection; Follows Trend in Biomarker Development and Testing Following Leqembi Approval
Labcorp, a global leader in laboratory services, has announced the nationwide availability of the ATN Profile, a new blood-based test designed to identify and assess biological changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease. This innovative test combines three well-researched blood biomarkers, allowing for earlier diagnosis and intervention. Healthcare providers now have the option to order the ATN Profile, which includes blood Aß42/40, pTau 181, and NfL, or they can order these tests individually.
Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent form of dementia, poses a significant healthcare challenge. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 6.7 million Americans currently live with Alzheimer’s, a number projected to increase to 14 million by 2060. The disease is characterized by the accumulation of protein plaques and tangles in the brain, leading to the malfunction and death of brain cells, a process known as neurodegeneration, which can begin years before the onset of symptoms like memory loss. Traditionally, identifying the biological changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease has been challenging. Common diagnostic methods, including physical exams, routine blood and urine tests, and cognitive assessments, often do not provide definitive answers, resulting in delayed referrals to specialists. Labcorp’s ATN Profile introduces a simple and easily interpretable blood test, enabling physicians to assess pathologies linked to Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions in appropriate patients.
Dr. Brian Caveney, Labcorp’s chief medical and scientific officer, emphasized the importance of this innovation, noting that “more definitive testing, including our new ATN profile, can provide objective insights to patients, their loved ones, and treating physicians as they navigate care and treatment.” T
In late July, Labcorp competitor Quest Diagnostics launched a competitive consumer test for Alzheimer’s disease called AD-Detect. AD-Detect is a screening test that assesses amyloid beta proteins in a single blood sample to detect early indicators of Alzheimer’s disease risk. These proteins accumulate in the brain and contribute to the disease’s progression. The test measures the ratio of two specific amyloid beta peptides, Aβ42 and Aβ40, in plasma.
There has been increase interest in Alzheimer’s testing following the FDA approval the Alzheimer’s drug Leqembi in January 2023. The approval was the first instance where a drug designed to impede the advancement of the disease has received complete regulatory clearance, as opposed to previously approved medications that solely address its symptoms.