Researchers in the United Kingdom are preparing to conduct a nationwide trial evaluating blood tests for biomarkers of dementias like FTD and Alzheimer’s disease, according to a recent article by Neuroscience News. The goal of the trial is to generate the evidence needed for the tests to be utilized used by the U.K.’s National Health Service (NHS).

The trial is led by research teams at University College London and the Dementias Platform UK program at Oxford University. The researchers plan to recruit participants from sites spread across the U.K. to ensure that the data collected by the trial is representative of its diverse population, with thousands expected to participate.

The trial begins as the field of biomarker research is showing progress — various blood tests for diagnosing FTD and other dementias are showing promise. At AFTD’s 2023 Holloway Summit, speakers emphasized that research on FTD biomarkers is rapidly progressing, with some studies evaluating the use of blood-based biomarkers.

Blood-based biomarkers could significantly streamline the process of diagnosing dementia, especially hard-to-diagnose dementias like FTD. Currently, FTD and other dementias are mostly diagnosed through screening tests and medical imaging like MRI. These methods are less accurate than ones such as lumbar punctures and PET scans, though these diagnostic tests are out of reach of many.

“At the moment, only 2% of people with dementia can access the specialized tests needed for a diagnosis, leading to unnecessary delays, worry, and uncertainty,” said Fiona Carragher, executive director of research and influencing at the Alzheimer’s Society. “Blood tests are part of the answer to this problem – they’re quick, easy to administer, and cheaper than current, more complex tests.”

“I’ve spent decades working in research and the NHS, and after years of slow progress, it feels like we’re on the cusp of a new chapter on how we treat dementia in this country,” she said.

The trial also addresses a growing need for dementia information, Dr. Vanessa Raymont, the associate director at Dementia Platforms UK, told Neuroscience News.

“Since I first stepped into a memory clinic 30 years ago, there has thankfully been a shift in the way society thinks about dementia,” Dr. Raymont said. “There was previously a feeling that this was just another part of aging, but now we’re seeing that people want to know more about their condition, and they want a diagnosis as it helps them access the support they need. Both my parents lived with dementia, so I know firsthand the devastation this disease causes and how a timely and accurate diagnosis can benefit people and their families.”

Research on the use of blood tests to diagnose and monitor FTD is ongoing, with a study from 2023 evaluating the use of the protein TDP-43 as a blood serum biomarker.

Do you want to get involved in FTD research? The FTD Disorders Registry is a powerful tool in the movement to discover treatments and a cure for FTD driven by the contributions of people with FTD, current and former care partners, family, and friends.