Enhance Your Study with Biomarker Analysis at NCRAD

Discover how we support Alzheimer's disease and related disorders (ADRD) research by providing cutting-edge biomarker analysis services. Explore the range of plasma assays we offer through our Biomarker Assay Laboratory (BAL). Learn about our commitment to standardization and quality, and find out how you can request a quote for your research needs.

Biomarker Assay Lab (BAL)

NCRAD has expanded its services with the establishment of the Biomarker Assay Laboratory (BAL). It is a state-of-the-art facility equipped with the latest technology and staffed by experienced personnel with extensive knowledge in the field of biomarker analysis. Like all services at NCRAD, the BAL uses standard operating procedures to ensure uniformity and minimize the impact of pre-analytical variables on downstream sample analyses.

The BAL analyzes well-established fluid-based biomarkers to support research studies, allowing for longitudinal quality monitoring and consistent delivery of results over time. The BAL's approach also enables cross-laboratory comparability studies to be conducted to ensure standardized processing and reliable research biomarker results.

Photo by Liz Kaye, Indiana University

Biomarker Assays Available in the BAL

The following plasma assays are currently available in the BAL:

Quanterix Simoa HD-X Plasma (Research Use Only)

Nf-Light Advantage Kit
Neurology 2 Plex B Advantage Kit (NfL, GFAP)*
Neurology 4 Plex E Advantage Kit (NfL, GFAP, Abeta 40, Abeta 42)
pTau 181 v2.1 Advantage Kit
Alzpath pTau 217 Kit*

Fujirebio Lumipulse Plasma (Research Use Only)

Lumipulse G β-Amyloid 1-42 Kit*
Lumipulse G β-Amyloid 1-40 Kit*
Lumipulse G pTau 181 Kit

Fujirebio Lumipulse CSF (Research Use Only): Anticipated Fall 2024

Lumipulse G β-Amyloid 1-42 Kit
Lumipulse G β-Amyloid 1-40 Kit
Lumipulse G pTau 181 Kit
Lumipulse G pTau 217 Kit

To request a quote and/or letter of support for the above assays through NCRAD, please complete the following form.

Complete the BAL quote questionnaire

All assays processed at the NCRAD Biomarker Assay Laboratory are for research use only. For investigators interested in CLIA results, requests can be facilitated by NCRAD, in collaboration with C2N. A more detailed description of the biomarkers, assays, and platforms utilized in the NCRAD BAL is available for download.

View BAL’s documentation on biomarkers, assays, and platforms View BAL's documentation on standardization of biomarker measurements and data handling

Please use the following wording when acknowledging the Biomarker Assay Lab in publications: The Biomarker Assay Lab is supported by the National Centralized Repository for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (NCRAD) through a cooperative agreement grant (U24 AG021886) awarded to NCRAD by the National Institute on Aging (NIA)

Investigators at the BAL

Meet the experts behind NCRAD's Biomarker Assay Laboratory (BAL). Our dedicated team of investigators and staff brings extensive experience in neurology and genetics.

BAL Investigators

Jeff Dage, Ph.D.

Senior Research Professor of Neurology and Primary Member, Stark Neurosciences Research Institute. He is a NCRAD co-investigator and is the Scientific Director of the Biomarker Assay Laboratory.

Kristen Russ, Ph.D.

Kristen Russ, Ph.D.: Assistant Research Professor of Medical and Molecular Genetics. She is a NCRAD co-investigator and the Biomarker Assay Laboratory Director.

BAL Staff

Clairisa Styton, B.S.

Clairisa Stayton, B.S.: She has been with Indiana University School of Medicine since June 2017. In 2022, she joined NCRAD as the Clinical Research Coordinator for the Biomarker Assay Laboratory. To reach Clairisa directly email cbstayto@iu.edu or call 317-278-1672.

Sample Collection, Processing and Shipping Recommendations

Sample Collection

To ensure the highest quality and most consistent assay results, NCRAD recommends standard uniform collection of biospecimens (Verberk et al.) as outlined by the Standardization of Alzheimer’s Blood Biomarkers (SABB) working group.

NCRAD recommends the use of polypropylene for all collection and processing materials.

View sample collection standard

Sample Processing

For sample processing, please refer to the following schematics.

BAL Schematics-Plasma, Buffy Coat BAL Schematics-Plasma

Shipping Information

Please ship frozen specimens Monday–Wednesday.

Please organize the samples within their shipment box in the same order as they are listed on the sample manifest.

Please send the sample manifest and shipment tracking number to iubal@iu.edu in advance of shipping the samples. This ensures that the BAL is available to receive the shipment and can track the shipment if necessary.

Download Manifest Template