Labcorp, a leading provider of innovative laboratory services globally, has announced the launch of the nation’s inaugural glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) test. This test serves as a pivotal blood-based biomarker aiding in the early detection of neurodegenerative diseases and neurological injuries.
The GFAP test, the first of its kind available commercially nationwide, presents physicians with a more streamlined approach to evaluating the onset and progression of conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, glioblastoma, and injuries like traumatic brain injury (TBI). It complements Labcorp’s extensive neurology portfolio, which already encompasses biomarker tests for neurofilament light chain (NfL), pTau181, pTau217, and beta amyloid 42/40.
Dr. Brian Caveney, Labcorp’s chief medical and scientific officer, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, “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 test employs highly sensitive immunoassay technology to detect GFAP presence from a simple blood draw, facilitating convenient testing in various settings including hospitals, physician offices, and Labcorp’s extensive network of over 2,000 patient service centers nationwide.
GFAP, primarily found in the brain’s supportive astrocyte cells, is released into the bloodstream in cases of neurodegenerative disease or injury. This enables the assessment of brain injury and disease through a straightforward blood test. Extensive research supports GFAP as a valuable early indicator of neurological damage.
