Proteome Sciences is following a unique approach to identify circulating biomarkers of neurological disease. Prior to our discovery of such markers in blood taken from patient samples, it had been assumed that the blood/brain barrier would block the entry of brain-derived proteins from entering the blood stream.

Starting with a proprietary map of ‘normal’ protein expression in astrocytes (the major brain cell type), Proteome Sciences has been able to identify proteins whose levels of expression change as a result of disease. Using a highly sensitive immunoassay format, the presence of many of these biomarkers in the bloodstream of patients has been clearly demonstrated.

A key in making such discoveries is having access to well characterised samples. With a laboratory at the Institute of Psychiatry in London, UK and collaborations with leading academic research groups in Europe, most notably at the University of Geneva, the UK Medical Research Council Prion Unit and through the EU 6th Framework Programme, Proteome Sciences has ensured access to samples of neurological tissues, CSF and blood from patients with a wide range of neurological conditions.

DRIVEN BY SUCCESS

Proteome Sciences’ unique approach has resulted in the identification of important new biomarkers of stroke and TSE/BSE in blood. These have been out-licensed to commercial partners who will produce diagnostic tests for use in hospitals and at animal testing laboratories respectively. The successful downstream development of biomedical and veterinary products based on other Proteome Sciences’ proprietary biomarkers will continue to drive the success of our discovery programmes in neurological diseases, in particular in neurodegeneration.