FAQs

Conventional methods like CSF testing and PET imaging are invasive, expensive, and not suitable for large-scale screening. IMR-based plasma biomarker assays are minimally invasive (just a blood draw), cost-effective, and scalable—ideal for early detection, routine monitoring, and broader accessibility.

IMR is a patented ultra-sensitive assay technology using antibody-coated magnetic nanoparticles. When these nanoparticles bind to target biomarkers (like Aβ1-42 or T-Tau) in plasma, a change in magnetic signal is measured, allowing accurate quantification at femtogram (fg/mL) levels—something traditional ELISA or SIMOA may struggle to detect due to low concentrations in blood.

IMR has demonstrated superior sensitivity and specificity in multiple clinical studies. For example, plasma Aβ1-42 x T-Tau measured by IMR achieved >96% sensitivity and >97% specificity for distinguishing Alzheimer’s patients from healthy controls. It also consistently shows higher diagnostic effect sizes than other platforms in meta-analyses.

IMR plasma biomarkers show strong correlation with gold-standard diagnostics:

• Amyloid PET: Aβ1-42/Aβ1-40 measured via IMR has AUC = 0.936, sensitivity/specificity both 87%

• CSF biomarkers: IMR-measured plasma T-Tau and Aβ1-42 correlate significantly with CSF levels.

• Brain volume: T-Tau levels reflect hippocampal atrophy (r = –0.477, p < 0.0001).

• Post-mortem validation: Aβ1-42 x T-Tau levels correlate with autopsy-confirmed amyloid pathology.

• Draw blood into K2/K3 EDTA tubes (non-fasting)

• Store at 20–25°C, not on ice

• Centrifuge within 4 hours, collect plasma

• Freeze at –80°C (stable for up to 5 years)
  This standardized protocol ensures consistency in ultra-sensitive measurement.

Yes. IMR kits for Aβ1-40, Aβ1-42, and T-Tau are CE IVD-certified and approved for clinical use in Taiwan, the EU, and South Korea. Additional biomarkers like p-Tau217 are currently for research use.

Yes. IMR systems are being introduced in the U.S. through CLIA-certified labs. We are actively expanding partnerships to bring these assays to more clinical and research sites.

We offer multiple ways to support researchers:

• Sample testing service: Send us your plasma samples for IMR testing.

• We provide full protocols for blood collection, plasma handling, and shipping, along with technical support to ensure sample integrity.

• Upon receiving your samples, our central lab will complete the testing within 2–4 weeks.

• Deliverables include a full IMR assay report with quantitative results and interpretation guidance (if applicable).

• For labs interested in running the assay in-house, we also offer kits and analyzer systems.

Please contact us to request the sample handling protocol or explore collaboration opportunities.