SelectScience InterviewsClinical Diagnostics

Overcoming sensitivity challenges in plasma-based neurology assays

30 May 2025
Sonia Nicholas
Managing Editor and Clinical Lead
Overcoming sensitivity challenges in plasma-based neurology assays

James Freeman, SVP and Head of Core Lab Solution R&D, outlines the hurdles in neurology testing, emphasizing assay sensitivity, especially in the detection of biomarkers for conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Traditional testing relies on cerebrospinal fluid, but this requires invasive lumbar punctures. Siemens Healthineers is working to solve this by developing plasma-based assays that maintain high sensitivity, focusing on antibodies and antibody conjugates to improve detection. Special buffer formulations help reduce non-specific binding while enhancing signal strength. As researchers refine biomarkers such as p-tau 217*, advancements in plasma assays may revolutionize neurology diagnostics, making tests more accessible and effective in distinguishing disease markers from healthy populations.


*p-tau 217 assay is in development, Future availability cannot be guaranteed.

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Siemens Healthineers

Siemens Healthcare is dedicated to helping you get the most out of your investment throughout the entire product life cycle and beyond. We understand that investments in healthcare technology today will have profound effects on both your patients and your business for years to come. Our goal is to enable you to take technology further, profitability higher, and patient care to the next level.

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