Blood Biomarker p-tau217 Enables Early Prediction of Alzheimer’s Disease Progression

A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at the Sant Pau Research Institute has demonstrated that the plasma biomarker p-tau217, detected through a simple blood test, can effectively predict Alzheimer’s disease progression even at its earliest, pre-symptomatic stages. Published in the journal Neurology, this research underscores the potential of blood-based diagnostics in diagnosing and monitoring neurodegenerative conditions.

The study involved 731 participants, both with and without cognitive impairment, who were followed over an average of ten years. By analyzing levels of p-tau217—a specific form of the tau protein linked to neurodegeneration—the researchers found that this biomarker not only correlates with the presence of Alzheimer’s but also forecasts the speed of cognitive decline and the transition to dementia.

Dr. Ignacio Illán, the lead researcher, emphasized the significance of this marker: "p-tau217 can identify individuals at risk before symptoms manifest and help estimate disease progression, which is vital for clinical decision-making." Similarly, neuropsychologist Judit Selma-González highlighted its utility in selecting suitable candidates for clinical trials of disease-modifying therapies.

Traditionally, diagnosing Alzheimer’s required invasive procedures like lumbar punctures or expensive imaging techniques such as PET scans. The use of plasma p-tau217 offers a noninvasive, cost-effective alternative, with levels increasing progressively from preclinical to advanced stages of the disease. It even outperformed its cerebrospinal fluid counterpart, p-tau181, in prognostic accuracy.

This advancement holds substantial promise in the era where disease-modifying treatments—like anti-amyloid antibodies—are becoming available, with their use contingent on disease stage. A simple blood test could soon enable clinicians to determine disease stage and monitor progression more effectively, facilitating personalized medicine approaches.

In conclusion, blood-based biomarkers like p-tau217 could revolutionize the early detection and management of Alzheimer’s disease, making diagnosis more accessible and improving treatment outcomes.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-blood-biomarker-alzheimer-disease-earliest.html