LAST CHANCE TO SAVE! New Trends for Life Sciences at PACK EXPO Southeast
Discover all the latest packaging solutions for life sciences products at the all-new PACK EXPO Southeast in Atlanta, GA, March 10-12, 2025
REGISTER ASAP FOR $30!

New Blood Test Detects Alzheimer’s Disease

Scientists have developed a blood test that can detect plaques of beta-amyloid building up in the brain, an indication they could develop Alzheimer’s disease.

Early Detection / Image: Getty Images
Early Detection / Image: Getty Images

People suffering from Alzheimer’s disease typically have sticky clumps of beta-amyloid in their brains. No one knows what part these plaques play in the disease, but their presence is linked to it. Until now, the only to monitor the plaque build-up was through spinal taps or expensive PET-scans. However, a recent New Scientist article reported that a team at Washington University in St. Louis has developed a simple blood test that can screen for Alzheimer’s as part of a routine physical.

Although there is currently no drug that treats Alzheimer’s, early detection is vital. This test enables doctors to identify those at risk for the disease and begin treatment before memory loss and brain damage occur. It works by measuring relative amounts of different forms of beta-amyloid, an indication of whether plaques are likely to accumulate in a person’s brain. In theory, the test can give peace of mind to those not at risk, and give those at risk a fighting chance.

LAST CHANCE TO SAVE! New Tech for Life Sciences at PACK EXPO Southeast
The exciting new PACK EXPO Southeast 2025 unites all vertical markets in one dynamic hub, generating more innovative answers to packaging challenges for life sciences products. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity for your business!
REGISTER ASAP FOR $30!
LAST CHANCE TO SAVE! New Tech for Life Sciences at PACK EXPO Southeast