Why Plasma Biomarkers Are the New Gold Standard for Brain Health

The future of brain health testing is here, and it’s as simple as a blood draw. For decades, memory health evaluation meant expensive brain scans or invasive spinal taps. Today, plasma biomarkers are changing that story.

These simple blood-based indicators are becoming the new gold standard for brain health testing, making early detection and prevention more accessible than ever.

At Neurogen, we believe in the power and hope that come with early detection. That’s why plasma biomarkers matter: they give you answers earlier, so you can take control of your brain health with confidence.

What Are Plasma Biomarkers?

Plasma biomarkers are proteins or molecules found in your blood that reflect what’s happening in your brain.

Instead of relying solely on imaging or invasive testing, these biomarkers act like early warning signals, revealing changes in the brain long before symptoms become obvious.

Some of the most studied brain health biomarkers include:

• Amyloid-β42/40 ratio: linked to the plaques found in Alzheimer’s disease.
• Phosphorylated tau (p-tau181, p-tau217): proteins that rise when tangles form in the brain.
• Neurofilament light chain (NfL): a biomarker that measures nerve cell damage.
• GFAP: a signal of brain inflammation and astroglial changes.

Together, these markers provide a clearer picture of memory health. And because they’re measured in blood, they’re far more accessible than a spinal tap or brain scan.

Why Plasma Biomarkers Are the Gold Standard

Now that you know what plasma biomarkers are, the next question is: why are they becoming the preferred choice for brain health testing?

Backed by Leading Institutions

Major organizations, such as the Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institute on Aging, now support the use of blood-based biomarkers in clinical guidelines.

This implementation means biomarkers are no longer “experimental” tools — they are being integrated into real-world care.

Plasma biomarkers can reduce the need for costly PET scans or invasive spinal taps, making brain health testing more straightforward and more approachable.

Proven Accuracy and Predictive Power

Plasma biomarkers hold up to the highest scientific standards. Studies show they strongly correlate with brain scans and cognitive outcomes. In memory clinics, they are already proving reliable for early detection and diagnosis.

For patients and families, this translates to something simple but powerful: clear answers without unnecessary hurdles.

Spotlight on p-tau217: A Breakthrough Biomarker

Among all plasma biomarkers, one has captured particular attention: p-tau217.

Research led by Neurogen's Chief Science Officer, Elisabeth Thijssen, and colleagues has shown that p-tau217:

• Outperforms other biomarkers in distinguishing Alzheimer’s disease from other dementias.
• Achieves very high diagnostic accuracy, with some studies reporting near-perfect results.
• Detects changes in the brain even before traditional imaging tests like PET scans can pick them up.

These findings make p-tau217 one of the most promising biomarkers for catching changes early, reinforcing the importance of identifying changes before they become severe.

Beyond Alzheimer’s: Supporting Lifelong Brain Health

While much of the research focuses on Alzheimer’s disease, plasma biomarkers have a broader role to play.

Recent studies suggest that they can also track healthy versus accelerated brain aging, giving us a clearer picture of how the brain changes over time.

With this knowledge, people can take practical steps such as adjusting their lifestyle, seeking preventative care, and building confidence in their long-term cognitive health.

Whether you are proactively monitoring your memory or managing a family history of cognitive decline, biomarkers deliver actionable insights. They also provide the reassurance of knowing where you stand.

What’s Next for Plasma Biomarkers

Plasma biomarkers are moving quickly from research to routine use, but there’s still progress ahead.

Scientists are working to standardize tests so results are consistent across clinics. Additionally, access is expanding, and with more opportunities for people to understand what their blood is telling them.

For example, our process at Neurogen is designed to be a simple way to give you a better understanding of your brain health. It includes:

• A straightforward blood draw with no invasive procedures.
• Advanced lab analysis to detect key biomarkers like p-tau217.
• Easy-to-understand results that show where you stand.
• Neurologist guidance on next steps, from lifestyle changes to clinical follow-up if needed.

For individuals and families, this means earlier clarity, less guesswork, and more confidence in planning for the future.

Taking Control of Your Brain Health

Your brain deserves the same care you give your heart. Plasma biomarkers make it possible to get answers sooner, so you can take control of your memory health on your terms.