1/15/2025
A New Blood Test for Axial Spondyloarthritis: The Anti-14-3-3eta Multiplex Test
Diagnosing axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) has historically been a challenge, with patients often facing delays of 7 to 10 years before receiving a diagnosis. These delays can result in missed opportunities for early treatment, increasing the risk of preventable damage. Much of this stems from the reliance on imaging, symptom observation, and genetic testing, such as the HLA-B27 marker, all of which have significant limitations.
The Anti-14-3-3eta Multiplex Test offers a new approach. Developed by Augurex, a Vancouver-based diagnostics company specializing in autoimmune diseases, the test builds on their expertise with the 14-3-3eta protein test, which is widely used for diagnosing and managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is available at major labs like Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics. This new Anti-14-3-3eta Multiplex Test focuses on identifying immune system markers linked to axSpA, potentially enabling earlier and more accurate diagnoses.
Understanding the Anti-14-3-3eta Multiplex Test
The Anti-14-3-3eta Multiplex Test measures autoantibodies—proteins the immune system produces in response to the 14-3-3eta protein. By analyzing these immune responses, the test provides real-time insights into the disease. It complements existing tools, such as CRP (a marker of inflammation), and is particularly helpful for patients who test negative for HLA-B27, a genetic marker commonly associated with axSpA.
Research indicates that combining this test with other markers can identify up to 90% of axSpA cases, reducing the need for more invasive or expensive diagnostic procedures.
Potential Benefits for Patients
For patients, the Anti-14-3-3eta Multiplex Test offers a pathway to faster diagnosis, which can lead to earlier treatment and better management of symptoms. Early intervention can help slow disease progression, reduce pain, and prevent long-term damage to the spine. Additionally, by tracking autoantibody levels over time, this test may assist doctors in monitoring treatment effectiveness, offering a dynamic view of disease management.
What Does the Research Say?
Studies show the Anti-14-3-3eta Multiplex Test is highly specific, meaning it reliably identifies patients while minimizing false positives. When combined with other markers like CRP, accuracy improves even further, making it a powerful tool in a doctor’s diagnostic arsenal.
The development of the Anti-14-3-3eta Multiplex Test is grounded in extensive peer-reviewed research conducted by experts in the field. Notably, Dr. Walter Maksymowych, a rheumatologist at the University of Alberta, has significantly contributed to understanding the role of both 14-3-3eta in RA and 14-3-3eta autoantibodies (Anti-14-3-3eta Multiplex) in axSpA.[i] [ii]Additionally, Dr. Maksymowych, Dr. Marian H. van Beers-Tas of Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, and other leading global researchers have published over ten years of research demonstrating the diagnostic and monitoring value of the 14-3-3eta marker in RA.[iii] [iv]These contributions have been instrumental in establishing the clinical utility of 14-3-3eta as a biomarker in RA, and setting the stage for the development of Anti-14-3-3eta Multiplex in axSpA.v
These findings have been presented at leading rheumatology conferences and reflect years of research aimed at addressing the unmet needs of axSpA patients.
Availability and Next Steps
The Anti-14-3-3eta Multiplex Test is currently available through New Day Diagnostics in Knoxville, Tennessee, with plans to expand access across the U.S. and Canada in 2025. Patients interested in exploring this diagnostic option should consult with their healthcare providers.
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