The AD/PD™ 2024: Advances in Science & Therapy Conference, to be held from March 5-9, 2024, in Lisbon, Portugal, is an international conference on Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Researchers, clinicians, and industry experts will gather to learn and share the latest advancements in detection, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for these neurological disorders. A central focus of the event will be on blood-based biomarkers, exploring new insights into the early detection and monitoring of these debilitating conditions. In this blog post, we will explore research supported by Simoa® assays and Quanterix instruments to be presented at AD/PD™ 2024, shedding light on key biomarkers such as Tau, p-Tau 181, p-Tau 217, p-Tau 231, and their potential implications for AD and PD.

Biomarkers in Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease Research

In the realm of neurodegenerative diseases like AD and PD, the need for reliable biomarkers has been a persistent challenge. However, recent advancements, particularly in blood-based biomarkers, are improving our understanding of disease pathophysiology and hold potential to change how researchers and clinicians diagnose, monitor, and potentially treat these debilitating conditions. Among these breakthroughs, phosphorylated Tau proteins, including p-Tau 181, p-Tau 217, and p-Tau 231—have emerged as promising biomarkers.

Exploring the Clinical Potential of Blood-Based Biomarkers for AD and PD

Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases represent two of the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders globally, characterized by progressive cognitive decline, motor dysfunction, and, ultimately, significant impairments in daily life. Accurate diagnosis of AD and PD has historically relied on clinical assessments in combination with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker measurements and neuroimaging techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET). However, these methods can be invasive, expensive, inaccessible, and may not be suitable for large-scale applications. The measurement of blood-based biomarkers offers a simple, cost-effective, accessible, and scalable approach to AD and PD research, diagnosis, and disease progression monitoring.

The Power of p-Tau

Tau is a microtubule-associated protein important for neuronal stability. One of the major neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the hyperphosphorylation of the tau protein which is thought to lead to pathological tau spread and neuronal death. p-Tau 181, p-Tau 217, and p-Tau 231 are phosphorylated forms of Tau protein that have shown remarkable potential as biomarkers for AD. Elevated levels of p-Tau 181, p-Tau 217, and p-Tau 231 in the blood have been associated with AD pathology and disease progression, offering valuable insights into disease mechanisms and differential diagnostics.

Potential Applications of Blood-Based Biomarker Associated with AD and PD Pathology

The use of blood-based biomarkers associated with AD and PD pathology holds great potential to be utilized in several important applications:

• Clinical Trials and Drug Development: Blood biomarkers have started to play a crucial role in clinical trials and drug development. The inclusion of blood biomarker measurements as an outcome measure can help assess the effectiveness of potential disease-modifying treatments, identify suitable participants for clinical trials, and monitor treatment response.

• Early Detection: Early diagnosis of AD and PD is crucial for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. By measuring blood biomarker levels, healthcare professionals may be able to identify individuals at risk of developing these diseases during the onset of symptoms. Early detection can enable early intervention and the implementation of appropriate therapeutic strategies.

• Differential Diagnosis: Distinguishing AD and PD from other neurological disorders can be challenging, particularly in the early stages. Blood biomarker levels may aid in differentiating these diseases from other types of neurological conditions, resulting in more accurate and timely diagnoses.

• Disease Progression Monitoring: Tracking the progression of AD and PD is essential for adjusting treatment plans and assessing therapeutic efficacy. Blood biomarker levels could serve as a tool to help measure disease progression, allowing healthcare providers to monitor changes over time and make informed decisions regarding patient care.

The characterization and validation of blood-based biomarkers, such as p-Tau 181, p-Tau 217, and p-Tau 231, represents a transformative shift in the landscape of neurodegenerative research and diagnostics. Blood biomarkers may offer new avenues for early diagnosis, precise disease monitoring, and improved therapeutic interventions. As we continue to unlock the full potential of blood-based biomarkers, we move closer to a future where neurodegenerative diseases are not only detectable at their earliest stages but also manageable through personalized and effective treatments.

To learn more about blood-based biomarkers at AD/PD™ 2024, please check out the following presentations and posters here.