A finger-prick blood test could revolutionize Alzheimer’s testing by allowing samples to be mailed to labs using regular post, offering a simpler and more accessible alternative to traditional methods. Developed by researchers at the University of Gothenburg, this method has shown strong biomarker accuracy and aligns with the need for early detection in Alzheimer’s treatment advancements.
Imagine a simple finger prick and a few drops of blood on a card that can be easily sent through the mail. This innovative approach could make Alzheimer’s detection easier and more accessible worldwide. Researchers at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden are leading a European study to bring this promising method closer to reality.
The biomarkers measured in this test have been developed over many years, demonstrating strong performance initially in cerebrospinal fluid, then in venous blood samples, and now in blood collected from superficial vessels in the finger.
The new test involves collecting one or two drops of blood from a finger prick onto a special card, which immediately separates blood cells from the plasma. After approximately 15 minutes, once the card has dried, it can be sent by regular mail to a laboratory for analysis. This method not only simplifies the testing process but also enhances accessibility, paving the way for earlier detection and intervention in Alzheimer’s disease.
