Translating neurofilament light chain testing into clinical practice: a multidisciplinary implementation roadmap - PubMed
4 hours ago
- #biomarker standardization
- #clinical validation
- #neurodegeneration
- Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is a sensitive biomarker for neuroaxonal injury in conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), ALS, Alzheimer's disease, and atypical parkinsonian syndromes.
- The paper provides a roadmap for integrating NfL testing into clinical practice, covering analytical, interpretative, and organizational aspects.
- NfL is highlighted for its diagnostic, prognostic, and monitoring utility, with emphasis on its sensitivity to both acute and chronic neurological conditions.
- Key challenges include standardization of immunoassay technologies, pre-analytical procedures, and addressing confounders like age, BMI, and renal function.
- Clinical applications focus on MS, recommending NfL for disease activity prediction, treatment decisions, and response assessment.
- Integration with MRI and other biomarkers (e.g., GFAP) is proposed for precision neurology.
- Implementation requires harmonized procedures, interdisciplinary education, and governance frameworks.
- Priority actions include regulatory qualification, international reference materials, and real-world trials to validate clinical utility.