How Neurogen’s Test Measures Up in Terms of Accuracy

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Author: Elisabeth Thijssen, PhD

Published On: November 26, 2025


When it comes to memory health, plasma biomarker accuracy goes far beyond a statistic. Instead, it’s a reflection of how confident you can be in your test results.

Recent advances in blood-based biomarker testing, particularly the p-tau217 protein, have made it possible to identify early brain changes linked to Alzheimer’s disease with the same confidence that was once limited to imaging and spinal taps.

At Neurogen, we view accuracy not just as a measurement but as the cornerstone of a more accessible approach to understanding your brain health.

What “Accuracy” Really Means in Alzheimer’s Testing

When we discuss accuracy in Alzheimer’s testing, we’re referring to how consistently a test identifies meaningful biological change without introducing false positives.

Three essential measures define accuracy in medical testing:

  • Sensitivity: The test’s ability to correctly identify individuals showing early brain changes.
  • Specificity: The test’s ability to avoid false positives or misleading results.
  • Clinical accuracy: The combined reliability that helps neurologists and families make the most informed next steps.

In peer-reviewed studies, blood-based tests measuring p-tau217 have demonstrated diagnostic accuracy of plasma biomarkers around approximately 88–92%, rivaling the precision once exclusive to PET scans and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analyses.

For patients, that means access to dependable insights sooner without invasive procedures or long delays.

Why P-tau217 Is Leading the Way in Alzheimer’s Detection

Plasma biomarkers are measurable indicators of what’s happening in the brain. Among them, p-tau217 has emerged as the most consistent and reliable signal of Alzheimer’s-related change.

Here’s how it compares to other biomarkers in memory science:

  • P-tau217: Shows a strong correlation with Alzheimer’s pathology and progression.
  • NfL (neurofilament light): Reflects general neurodegeneration but lacks Alzheimer’s specificity.
  • Amyloid β ratios: Valuable in combination with other markers but influenced by disease stage.

At Neurogen, we focus on p-tau217 because it consistently separates Alzheimer’s-related patterns from other forms of cognitive decline.

Its proven precision aligns with the Alzheimer’s Association's guidelines and findings from major clinical trials, allowing us to deliver accurate results with a simple at-home test.

The Proof Behind Plasma Biomarker Accuracy in Alzheimer’s Detection

In Alzheimer’s diagnostics, governing bodies such as the FDA and Alzheimer’s Association set expectations for clinical testing to achieve 85–90% accuracy to be considered clinically reliable. This range serves as the current industry benchmark for blood-based Alzheimer’s detection.

Industry Standard Benchmarks:

  • Accuracy thresholds of 85–90% are required for tests to meet FDA-level validation.
  • Lab-based providers such as Quest and Labcorp typically operate within this approved range.
  • Most programs rely on in-clinic blood collection for maintaining test integrity.

Neurogen’s Clinical Findings:

  • Neurogen’s phlebotomy-based p-tau217 test achieved near 96% accuracy during early rounds of testing with at-home phlebotomy appointments.
  • This level of precision surpasses industry averages, demonstrating Neurogen’s advancement in test sensitivity and reliability.

Additionally, tests using a Tasso device, which can be done at home without a phlebotomist, reached 88% accuracy, aligning closely with phlebotomy-based results and confirming strong clinical-grade performance.

These findings highlight how Neurogen’s testing not only meets but exceeds regulatory standards, while expanding access beyond traditional clinical settings.

How Neurogen’s Ecosystem Compares to Other Blood-Based Approaches

Several companies have introduced blood biomarker tests, but not all measure the same indicators or deliver the same level of guidance.

Here’s how Neurogen’s approach compares to other leaders in the industry:

  • Function Health: Relies on NfL, which is a general measure of brain health, but it isn’t an Alzheimer’s-specific biomarker.
  • Quest and Labcorp panels: Combine p-tau217 and amyloid ratios, but testing is available through select clinical channels and is primarily focused on laboratory output.
  • Neurogen: Provides a p-tau217 blood test and a comprehensive memory health evaluation, paired with neurologist-led consultations for qualified individuals.

Why Testing Is Only Part of the Memory Health Equation

For every positive or elevated result, one of our neurologists reviews the combined biomarker and cognitive test results and follows up with participants via telehealth appointments to translate test data into real-world understanding.

By combining precise testing with neurologist feedback, our ecosystem becomes a place where people can better understand their memory health and take action years before traditional testing.

This connected model ensures that results are meaningful, actionable, and personal.

You’re never left to interpret findings alone, and our team helps you understand what they mean for you and your family.

Know Sooner With Neurogen’s At-Home Memory Health Ecosystem

Accuracy builds trust, and trust opens the door to early action. Neurogen’s p-tau217 test offers both the precision of validated science and the compassion of clinician-guided care.

Own Your Brain Health

Discover how Neurogen’s clinically validated blood test and neurologist-guided care can help you gain early clarity.

Elisabeth Thijssen, PhD

Elisabeth Thijssen, PhD

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Dr. Elisabeth Thijssen leads Neurogen’s scientific vision, uniting over a decade of expertise in neurodegenerative research and biomarker innovation. Her groundbreaking work on Alzheimer’s blood testing has redefined what’s possible in early disease detection. Holding a Cum Laude PhD in the Neurochemistry of Alzheimer’s Disease, along with advanced degrees in Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Dr. Thijssen’s leadership ensures Neurogen’s mission remains grounded in both scientific excellence and human purpose. With experience spanning consulting, biotech, and academic research, she has driven transformative R&D and strategic partnerships that translate science into real-world impact.