PHX Reporter

Emerging blood tests are making significant strides in the battle against Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most prevalent cause of cognitive decline in older adults. Banner Health has appointed Nicholas Ashton, Ph.D., as the senior director of its new Blood-Based Biomarker Program. Dr. Ashton, a leader in cerebrospinal fluid and blood test research for Alzheimer's and related diseases, began his role this week.

Dr. Ashton will lead a research laboratory focused on developing spinal fluid and blood tests, including pinprick tests for Alzheimer's and other age-related disorders. His work will also involve assessing these tests' performance through national and international studies to enhance understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of such diseases.

Eric Reiman, MD, CEO of Banner Research and executive director of Banner Alzheimer’s Institute stated, “Our colleagues, collaborators, and I could not be more excited about the chance to work with Dr. Ashton.” He added that their collaboration could significantly impact Alzheimer’s diagnosis and care standards.

The program will operate at Banner Sun Health Research Institute with contributions from researchers there and at Banner Alzheimer’s Institute. It will collaborate with Banner Sun Health's brain donation program to verify new blood tests for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s using biological samples from participants who donate their brains posthumously.

Dr. Ashton expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m thrilled to develop a new biomarker program...and fulfill our shared scientific and clinical goals together.” With a PhD from King’s College London and further training at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, Dr. Ashton is an accomplished researcher recognized globally for his contributions to dementia research.

Marjorie Bessel, MD, chief clinical officer for Banner Health said, “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Ashton...establishing a destination center for the field.” She emphasized their commitment to collaborating within Arizona and internationally for maximum impact.

Banner Sun Health Research Institute has been at the forefront of aging disorder research since 1986. Meanwhile, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute aims to discover effective Alzheimer’s prevention therapies by 2025 through innovative models of dementia care and collaboration in biomedical research.