Core Insights - Quanterix Corporation announced a landmark study validating a dual biomarker approach using GFAP and NfL for monitoring Multiple Sclerosis (MS), published in the journal 'Brain' [1][2] Group 1: Study Findings - The study led by Professor Jens Kuhle demonstrated that elevated serum GFAP levels are significantly associated with an increased risk of Progression Independent of Relapse Activity (PIRA), which is a critical unmet need in MS [2] - Serum NfL was confirmed as the gold standard for predicting future relapses and monitoring acute disease activity, providing a comprehensive view of a patient's status [2][4] - The combination of GFAP and NfL allows for monitoring both acute inflammatory activity and chronic disease progression, enhancing personalized patient management [2][4] Group 2: Technological Advancements - Extensive Simoa-based normative reference databases for GFAP and NfL were established, generated from thousands of individuals, enabling meaningful clinical interpretation of test results [3] - The use of a free online tool for interpreting individual patient results based on age, sex, and BMI allows clinicians to accurately assess biomarker status and progression risk [3] - Quanterix's Simoa technology enables highly sensitive assays in a single multiplexed test, creating a unique ecosystem for precision medicine in MS [5] Group 3: Implications for Treatment - The study suggests that GFAP levels decrease under fingolimod treatment, indicating a potential novel mechanism of action for this drug class, which could open new avenues for drug development and monitoring [5] - The integration of GFAP and NfL into clinical practice is expected to materially advance the management of MS patients, offering a best-in-class approach [5]
Quanterix Announces Landmark Study Demonstrating Dual GFAP/NfL Blood Test Approach for Personalized Multiple Sclerosis Monitoring