Developing sensors for rapid detection of biomarker proteins for Alzheimer disease

Dr. Michael Adachi
Simon Fraser University
Project Title: Developing sensors for rapid detection of biomarker proteins for Alzheimer disease
Co-funding Partner: Michael Smith Health Research BC
Grant Name: 2022 BC Scholar Award, jointly funded by MS Health Research & CLEAR
Grant Duration: 2022-2027 (five years)
Research Lay Summary:

Biomarkers are measurable indicators that help determine if a person may have or be at risk of developing a disease. Researchers have identified phosphorylated tau (p-tau) proteins and small proteins called cytokines to be promising biomarkers for Alzheimer’s. To detect these biomarkers in blood samples, very sensitive detection methods are needed. Existing methods have drawbacks such as being expensive and time-consuming, therefore limiting their availability to people in Canada.

Dr. Adachi has developed a new sensor that can detect proteins at ultra-low concentrations using a simple and rapid test. His goal now is to make a rapid and easy-to-use tool that can be used by clinicians to help diagnose Alzheimer disease for personalized health monitoring.

Imagine a world without Alzheimer disease.