Exploring the stability of AD plasma biomarkers stored for extended periods at −20°C: Implications for resource-constrained environments

In this study, we wanted to see if blood markers linked to Alzheimer’s disease stay stable when stored for a long time at -20°C, a temperature many labs around the world can access. We found that these biomarkers, including those related to amyloid and tau, did not change much over time, even without ultra-cold freezers. This means that labs with fewer resources can still collect and store samples in a reliable way (up to 15 weeks).These results show that important Alzheimer’s research does not always require expensive equipment. Because of this, more communities and countries can take part in studies that help us understand the disease. This makes research more fair and more representative of people around the world. Our findings could help improve early testing and tracking of Alzheimer’s disease in places that have been left out before. Overall, this work supports better access to scientific tools and helps move Alzheimer’s research forward in a more inclusive way.

Ayele BA, Whitehead PL, Pascual J, et al. AD plasma biomarkers are stable for an extended period at -20°C: implications for resource-constrained environments. Preprint. medRxiv. 2024;2024.07.17.24310504. Published 2024 Jul 17. doi:10.1101/2024.07.17.24310504