ALZpath inks licensing deal with Abbott for Alzheimer’s blood test development

• Abbott will integrate ALZpath's antibody into tests for its Alinity laboratory systems, with U.S. regulatory approvals anticipated in the second half of the year
• The test targets pTau217, described as 'a bit of a revolution' for early Alzheimer's detection, offering an alternative to expensive PET imaging and invasive cerebrospinal fluid analysis
• ALZpath has partnered with multiple diagnostics firms (Abbott, Roche, Beckman Coulter, Siemens) through royalty-based licensing to quickly reach patients, covering roughly 80% of the diagnostic market

Summary

Key Development: ALZpath announced a global licensing agreement with Abbott Laboratories on June 24 to advance blood-based testing for Alzheimer's disease, marking a significant expansion in accessible diagnostic options for the neurodegenerative condition.

Deal Structure and Market Impact:

• Abbott will integrate ALZpath's proprietary antibody into tests running on its Alinity laboratory systems
• The royalty-based licensing partnership gives ALZpath access to approximately 80% of the in-vitro diagnostic market, according to CEO Mike Banville
• Financial terms were not disclosed

Technology Focus:

The test targets pTau217, a blood marker that can detect Alzheimer's-related changes years before dementia symptoms appear. Scientific adviser Henrik Zetterberg described pTau217 as "a bit of a revolution in detecting Alzheimer's disease early," enabling assessment of patients with memory symptoms.

Competitive Landscape:

• California-based ALZpath has previously partnered with Roche, Beckman Coulter, and Siemens Healthineers
• Blood tests from competitors, including Japan's Fujirebio, have already received regulatory approval
• The company chose licensing partnerships to reach patients more quickly rather than direct commercialization

Market Context:

Blood-based testing offers a less invasive and more cost-effective alternative to traditional Alzheimer's diagnostics, which rely on expensive PET imaging and cerebrospinal fluid analysis.

Timeline:

U.S. regulatory approvals for some partners are anticipated in the second half of the year, with broader regulatory progress expected in coming months.

This deal strengthens Abbott's position in the growing Alzheimer's diagnostics market while accelerating ALZpath's commercial reach.