Global life sciences company Labcorp has announced the first commercially available glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) blood biomarker test in the US, offering a new tool for the early detection of neurodegenerative diseases and brain injuries.

The new tool measures GFAP, an early-stage indicator of neurological damage, from a simple blood draw using highly sensitive immunoassay technology.

Now part of Labcorp's extensive neurology portfolio, the test represents a significant advancement in the diagnosis and management of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, glioblastoma, and traumatic brain injury (TBI).

The test can be carried out in various settings, including hospitals, physician offices, and Labcorp's extensive network of patient service centres.

Labcorp chief medical and scientific officer Dr Brian Caveney said: “The introduction of the GFAP biomarker test marks a significant milestone for Labcorp, extending our leadership in the rapidly accelerating field of blood-based biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases.

“The breadth of our portfolio reflects our commitment to providing physicians with cutting-edge technology for the evaluation and treatment of neurodegeneration to enhance and improve patient care.”

The GFAP blood biomarker test complements Labcorp's existing neurology tests, which include biomarkers such as neurofilament light chain (NfL), pTau181, pTau217, and beta-amyloid 42/40.

Last year, Labcorp unveiled a new liquid biopsy test, called Labcorp Plasma Focus. The new test allows oncologists to assess circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) released by tumour cells and offer personalised, targeted therapy plans for patients.

Labcorp Plasma Focus test supports providers in identifying biomarkers at an early stage, helping to use available targeted therapies to enhance survival outcomes.