At Profound Research, our mission is clear—improving lives by providing advanced therapeutic options. That mission comes to life through the dedication of our Principal Investigators, whose expertise and passion drive the future of medicine. One such leader is Alina C. Beaton, MD, a board-certified internist with a subspecialty in General Internal Medicine, practicing in Pasadena, California. Her journey in clinical research is fueled by a desire to improve treatment options for patients, particularly in the field of pain management and chronic disease research.  

A Journey from Private Practice to Clinical Research   

Dr. Beaton’s career began in a traditional private practice, where she managed a variety of conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and pain control. While she found deep fulfillment in caring for patients, she felt compelled to do more—to contribute to the development of better, safer therapies that could enhance patient care on a broader scale.   

“As I learned more about the process of clinical research, I found it incredibly fulfilling,” Dr. Beaton shares. “Being able to participate in the study of new therapies and contribute to the advancement of medicine as a Principal Investigator is incredibly meaningful to me.”   

Driving Innovation in Pain Management  

With years of experience in clinical research, Dr. Beaton has focused much of her work on investigational therapies for pain management—a field where medical options remain limited, and opioid use has contributed to widespread addiction.   

“I am excited to help develop better pain control solutions so that, as a medical community, we can offer safer alternatives to patients struggling with pain,” she explains. Beyond pain research, Dr. Beaton has also worked on studies related to Alzheimer’s disease, motion sickness, and obstructive sleep apnea. 

A Commitment to Excellence in Clinical Trials  

When choosing to partner with Profound Research, Dr. Beaton was drawn to the company’s commitment to patient-centered care and research excellence. She understands that maintaining the highest standards of protocol adherence and regulatory compliance is critical to ensuring patient safety and uncovering the true impact of investigational therapies.   

“Protocol and regulatory compliance are critical to participant safety and clinical trial success,” she says. “They are the only means of successfully revealing the truth about an investigational drug.”   

Living Profound’s Core Values   

At the heart of Dr. Beaton’s research practice is Solution Orientation—one of Profound Research’s four core values, along with Compassion, Urgency, and Excellence.   

“Solution Orientation is where all the other values intersect,” she explains. “It serves as the foundation of my research practice, ensuring that every study I lead is focused on meaningful outcomes for patients.”   

Beyond the Lab: A Glimpse into Dr. Beaton’s Interests   

Outside of her work in research, Dr. Beaton enjoys spending time with her nieces and nephews, visiting Huntington libraries, and listening to music. 

Advancing the Future of Medicine  

Through her dedication to clinical excellence, patient safety, and research innovation, Dr. Beaton plays a vital role in helping Profound Research fulfill its mission. By leading studies that push the boundaries of pain management and beyond, she is contributing to the development of safer, more effective treatments that have the potential to improve countless lives.   

At Profound Research, we are proud to work alongside passionate investigators like Dr. Beaton, who share our vision of creating the absolute best patient-physician experience in clinical research.   

Want to learn more about the cutting-edge studies happening at Profound Research?  

Connect with us today.   

At Profound Research, we believe that our strength lies in our people. Today, we're excited to spotlight an exceptional team member whose work embodies our commitment to transforming clinical research. Michelle Peek brings nearly three decades of hands-on experience and a passion for innovation that has consistently pushed the boundaries of site development. Her career is a testament to dedication, precision, and the drive to bring advanced treatments to patients faster. In this in-depth Q&A, Michelle shares her journey, the strategies she employs to streamline site operations, and her vision for the future—all of which highlight how one individual's efforts can catalyze significant industry change. 

Can you share a bit about your journey in clinical research and what led you to your role as Senior Director of Site Development at Profound Research?   

"My journey in clinical research began 29 years ago as a study coordinator in an internal medicine practice, where I led trials focused on senior patients. I later transitioned into cardiology research, where I managed both inpatient and outpatient trials. My experience expanded as I served as a site manager for a leading cardiologist, overseeing studies that involved close coordination with local IRBs, pharmacy teams, and RNs. I was fortunate to be involved in critical phases of patient care—from the ER to the cardiac catheterization lab—ensuring smooth protocol execution for groundbreaking medications like Plavix and Eliquis. My role as a Site Director allowed me to lead high-volume vaccine trials and even establish our own PBMC lab, which significantly enhanced our research capabilities. After building a robust vaccine research network at Elligo Health Research, I joined Profound Research in 2023 as Senior Director of Site Development and Training. Here, I bring all that experience to support site development, mentor emerging talent, and drive the day-to-day success of our clinical operations." 

How does your work in site development contribute to expanding access to innovative treatments for patients? 

"Ensuring that clinical sites are equipped with the right infrastructure and trained personnel is key to launching and managing trials effectively. By optimizing site readiness, we can accelerate the start of clinical studies and bring cutting-edge treatments to patients faster. This focus on operational excellence directly supports our mission to expand access to innovative therapies." 

One of our core values is ‘Urgency’—acting swiftly and decisively to meet the needs of patients, partners, and colleagues. How do you approach this in your role when developing and expanding sites? 

"I believe every day counts for patients waiting for new therapies. My approach is all about streamlining site activation, reducing operational bottlenecks, and ensuring our teams are fully equipped to launch studies efficiently. This blend of speed and precision means we can deliver potentially life-changing treatments to patients sooner, reflecting our commitment to acting with urgency." 

Building strong patient-physician relationships is central to our mission. How does site development play a role in ensuring that clinical research enhances, rather than disrupts, that relationship?  

"Effective site development is about people as much as it is about processes. I work closely with physicians to onboard new investigators and integrate clinical research seamlessly into their practices. By serving as a liaison between physicians and our internal teams, I help foster trust and collaboration, ensuring that the research process supports and even enhances patient-physician relationships." 

What excites you most about the future of site development at Profound Research, and how do you see our commitment to excellence shaping the next phase of growth?   

"I'm particularly excited about expanding our research footprint into new geographic regions, especially in areas that have historically had limited access to clinical trials. Our commitment to excellence means that as we grow, we will continue to uphold the highest standards in patient care, research quality, and operational efficiency. This focus not only fuels our growth but also solidifies our position as a disruptor in the industry." 

When you’re not working to expand clinical research sites, how do you like to spend your free time? Any hobbies or interests you’re passionate about? 

"Outside of work, I love spending quality time with my family and our dogs. I also enjoy long walks on the beach, which help me recharge and find peace." 

In Conclusion 

Michelle Peek’s journey and vision exemplify the spirit of innovation and excellence at Profound Research. Her dedication to streamlining clinical trials and building strong relationships within the research community plays a vital role in bringing advanced therapies to patients faster, ensuring a brighter future for clinical research. 

Thank you, Michelle, for your commitment to excellence and for being such an integral part of the Profound Research family!   

Discover how Southern California Neurology Consultants—led by Dr. Arbi G. Ohanian in Pasadena, CA—combines rapid feasibility, operational precision, and compassionate care to drive neurological research. 

Southern California Neurology Consultants (SCNC) is redefining clinical research through a seamless blend of patient-centric care and operational excellence. Conveniently located in Pasadena, CA, and under the expert leadership of Principal Investigator Dr. Arbi G. Ohanian, SCNC stands as a trusted partner for sponsors and CROs seeking a site that balances efficiency, innovation, and compassionate care. 

At SCNC, the patient-physician relationship is at the forefront of every clinical trial. Patients are engaged and well-informed throughout their research journey, ensuring that their voices are heard without compromising their standard care. This commitment to clear communication and individualized attention not only enhances the patient experience but also builds a strong foundation for successful clinical studies. 

While SCNC specializes in a diverse range of neurological therapeutic areas—including general neurology, Parkinson’s disease, migraine relief, epilepsy, neuropsychology, and neuropathy—the site’s collaborative, multidisciplinary approach is a model of excellence that can be extended to other therapeutic areas. The integration of advanced treatment options with a comprehensive care environment ensures that every trial is designed to optimize patient outcomes. 

Sponsors and CROs will appreciate SCNC’s rapid and solution-oriented approach to trial execution. With a dedicated principal investigator and Profound staff on site daily, the team is poised to quickly recruit and screen eligible patients. This agility, combined with robust communication practices, allows trials to move forward efficiently while keeping patients fully supported and informed at every stage. 

Infrastructure is another cornerstone of SCNC’s success. The site boasts state-of-the-art research facilities—including an exclusive research lab and a dedicated Clinical Research Coordinator room—alongside flexible access to the broader clinic space. This operational excellence not only guarantees reliability and high performance but also provides the adaptability needed to meet the evolving demands of clinical trials. 

At its core, SCNC embodies a commitment to compassion and ethical excellence. Every patient receives personalized care under rigorous ethical guidelines, ensuring that clinical research is conducted with both scientific precision and genuine care. This balanced approach aligns perfectly with the needs of sponsors and CROs, who seek partners capable of upholding the highest standards while delivering rapid, effective trial execution. 

Work with SCNC 

If you are a sponsor or CRO looking to advance your clinical research portfolio, we invite you to experience the difference of partnering with SCNC. Send us your protocols in neurology research to feasibility@profoundresearch.com to begin our rapid feasibility process and discover how our patient-centric, efficient, and ethical approach can transform your next clinical trial. 

About Dr. Ohanian

Arbi Ohanian, MD, is a board-certified neurologist specializing in vascular and stroke care. He holds a medical degree from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine and completed his residency and fellowship training at the University of California, Los Angeles. He serves as the Medical Director of the Stroke program at Huntington Memorial Hospital in Pasadena, California.

We are excited to announce the newest addition to Profound Research’s executive leadership team, John D. Williford, Esq., who joins us as General Counsel. John brings a wealth of legal and strategic expertise, honed through over a decade of experience in the clinical research industry. His deep understanding of legal affairs, contract negotiations, and business continuity planning makes him an invaluable asset to our organization as we continue to expand our impact in advancing therapeutic solutions.   

John’s career spans leadership roles at prominent organizations such as IQVIA, where he served as Global Head of Legal Affairs for Research and Development Solutions, managing legal affairs for an $8 billion business unit. He has also held positions at PRA Health Sciences and Clinical Technology Transfer Group, where he demonstrated his prowess in clinical contracting, litigation management, and regulatory compliance. Notably, John led IQVIA's legal response during the Russia-Ukraine crisis, a critical effort that earned him the 2023 IQVIA CEO Award for excellence.   

Reflecting on his new role, John shares:   

"Joining Profound Research represents an extraordinary opportunity to contribute to the mission of improving lives through advanced therapeutic options. I am deeply inspired by the commitment of this team to delivering innovative clinical research that shapes the future of healthcare." 

Profound Research CEO, Dr. Lora Parahovnik, expressed her enthusiasm about the appointment:   

"We are thrilled to welcome John to the Profound Research family. His extensive experience and strategic vision will be instrumental as we navigate the complexities of the clinical research landscape and pursue our mission to create the best patient-physician experience in clinical research." 

As General Counsel, John will oversee all legal matters, ensuring operational excellence while driving initiatives that support Profound’s growth and success. With his leadership,   

we are poised to navigate challenges and opportunities with confidence, fostering innovative partnerships and delivering on our promise to patients and physicians alike.   

Please join us in welcoming John D. Williford to the team. Together, we will continue to make strides in improving lives through groundbreaking research and therapeutic innovation. 

About Profound Research  

 Profound Research is an integrated clinical research network comprising trial sites embedded into independent physician practices. With a mission to expand access to clinical research for community patients and offer more therapeutic options to community physicians, Profound Research operates across Southern California, the Detroit metropolitan area, and is expanding nationwide. The company boasts a team of experienced research professionals dedicated to providing high-quality clinical research support to physicians and their patients. 

At Profound Research, every team member plays a crucial role in advancing our mission of improving lives through advanced therapeutic options. Today, we’re excited to highlight Jacqulyn Bowers, our dynamic Talent Acquisition Lead, whose thoughtful approach to recruiting ensures that every new hire is aligned with our mission, vision, and values. 

Jacqulyn’s path to clinical research recruitment is as unique as her approach. A resident of North Carolina, she earned her degree in Environmental Science from Western Carolina University, fueled by her passion for the natural world. After a successful career as a Realtor and mentor, Jacqulyn transitioned into clinical research—a move that enabled her to combine her love for helping others with her knack for connecting the right people with the right opportunities. Whether exploring the outdoors, chasing chickens on her small farm, or baking bread in her kitchen, Jacqulyn approaches life—and work—with curiosity, determination, and a human touch. 

We recently caught up with Jacqulyn to discuss how she embodies Profound Research’s mission, vision, and values in her work. 

Q: How do Profound Research’s core values of Compassion, Urgency, Solution Orientation, and Excellence guide your approach to recruiting talent? 

Each core value is essential to talent recruitment. When speaking with applicants, I focus on their story and their "why," often discovering their genuine compassion for patients. Urgency is equally important—every position we fill impacts our patients, site operations, and business. For me, solution orientation is personally fulfilling. Whether overcoming a tough hiring challenge or improving a process, I’m always looking for the most efficient path forward. Lastly, striving for excellence ensures we deliver a first-class experience for everyone involved—applicants, hiring managers, and ultimately, our patients.   

Q: What qualities or attributes do you look for in candidates that align with Profound Research’s mission of improving lives through advanced therapeutic options? 

I approach each candidate as a whole person, not just a résumé. While skills and experience are critical, I want to understand their motivations, passions, and values. Candidates who can communicate their commitment to something bigger than themselves—such as improving patients’ lives—are the ones who bring our mission to life. We’re looking for individuals who are driven, eager to learn, and capable of thinking outside the box to make a meaningful impact.   

Q: How do you ensure that new team members will contribute to creating the “best patient-physician experience” in clinical research, as outlined in our vision? 

Patient centricity can be tough to screen for, but you can hear it in someone’s voice. I often ask myself: Would this person make me feel safe and cared for as a patient? Do I trust their expertise? These are the people we want—those who view their work through the lens of patient care, even if their role isn’t patient-facing.   

Q: What strategies or methods do you find most effective in attracting top talent to Profound Research in a competitive clinical research environment? 

I believe in finding the right individual for the right role, even if it means thinking creatively about their skills and experiences. Sometimes, the best fit isn’t the person with the most years on their résumé but someone who aligns deeply with our culture and values. Networking is also key—many of our best hires come through employee referrals or relationships built within the clinical research community.   

Q: Can you share an example of how you work with other departments to meet urgent hiring needs, ensuring we can act swiftly to meet our patients' and partners’ needs? 

Collaboration is critical. I partner closely with department heads and leadership to understand their specific needs and challenges, fostering open communication and trust. Aligning their priorities with my own allows me to act with urgency and deliver the right people for their teams.   

Q: Tell us something interesting about yourself—have fun with this one! 

I’m a proud Appalachian with a small farm full of more chickens and animals than I can count! I love learning and challenging myself, whether it’s knitting, baking bread, or chasing a chicken that’s escaped. My grandmother taught me to cook when I was young, so the kitchen feels like my happy place.   

Jacqulyn’s Impact at Profound Research 

Jacqulyn’s thoughtful, values-driven approach to recruitment positions Profound Research for continued success and industry disruption. By finding candidates who align with our mission, vision, and values, she ensures we’re building a team capable of delivering innovative therapeutic options and creating the absolute best patient-physician experience in clinical research.   

Thank you, Jacqulyn, for your commitment to excellence and for being such an integral part of the Profound Research family!   

At Profound Research, our commitment to quality goes beyond compliance; it's a core value that guides our mission to improve lives through advanced therapeutic options and our vision of creating the absolute best patient-physician experience in clinical research. This World Quality Week, we’re thrilled to feature Mackenzie Schranck, our Associate Director of Quality Management, in the third installment of a Q&A series highlighting our quality team’s contributions. Mackenzie, an experienced Clinical Quality and Compliance Professional, holds a Bachelor's degree in Health Services from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Her background spans essential aspects of quality management, including quality assurance and control, patient safety, and regulatory compliance, making her an invaluable asset to Profound’s pursuit of excellence.

Mackenzie’s journey into clinical quality was, as she describes, somewhat serendipitous. Clinical research found her, but she quickly recognized how well the role aligned with her strengths and personal values. Her motivation stems from a desire to see investigational products successfully reach FDA approval, so they can benefit patients in need. She explains, “It became a personal mission to ensure data integrity in each trial to support the FDA in determining the efficacy and safety of investigational products, so they can reach the market as quickly as possible.” Mackenzie’s dedication reflects Profound Research’s value of Compassion, which prioritizes the patient-physician relationship and drives our team to serve patients with empathy and purpose.

In her role, Mackenzie ensures that clinical trials across Profound’s nationwide network adhere to strict regulatory requirements, industry standards, and internal policies. This includes conducting meticulous clinical trial data reviews, guiding trial personnel with regulatory insights, and supporting both customer audits and FDA inspections. As a Solution-Oriented leader, Mackenzie plays a vital role in identifying and implementing practical solutions to uphold quality and consistency across our network of sites. She and her team also monitor quality management metrics and spearhead initiatives to continually improve Profound’s quality standards, emphasizing our value of Excellence and our commitment to best-in-class service and integrity.

Mackenzie’s favorite part of her role is the camaraderie within the Profound Quality team. “We’ve built a really amazing team of quality professionals who are so knowledgeable and always willing to lend an ear or brain whenever it’s needed,” she shares, underscoring how Profound’s culture of collaboration and mutual support aligns with our mission of creating a patient-physician experience marked by trust and understanding.

Outside of work, Mackenzie is an avid hockey fan with a unique goal—to watch the St. Louis Blues play in every NHL arena. Her enthusiasm and commitment to achieving her goals are yet another example of the spirit she brings to Profound’s Quality team, helping to drive our mission of improving lives through advanced clinical research.

As we continue our celebration of World Quality Week, we’re excited to spotlight one of the talented team members who drives Profound Research’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and compassion in clinical research—Sarah Darnell, Validation Engineer at Profound Research. Sarah is an experienced Validation Analyst with a robust background in the pharmaceutical industry, bringing expertise in FDA regulations, Electronic Data Capture (EDC), and clinical research. With a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Texas State University, Sarah’s unique perspective and skill set empower her to elevate Profound’s mission of "Improving lives by providing advanced therapeutic options."

What motivated you to pursue a career focused on quality in clinical trials?

Sarah: “In my past careers, quality departments were often viewed as a roadblock to business operations. Coming from the business/site side of clinical operations, I am dedicated to changing that narrative and upholding strong ethical standards in conducting clinical trials. Being part of the quality team at Profound allows me to be innovative. Our team has been integral in shifting the stigma, showing that we’re here to foster an environment of continuous improvement and innovation—not to make anyone's job harder. We are partners in making trials more effective and ethical.”

Profound Research’s commitment to "Creating the absolute best patient-physician experience in clinical research" shines through Sarah’s dedication to not just maintaining, but improving quality standards, building trust with her colleagues and fostering a collaborative atmosphere that drives true progress.

Describe your role on the Profound Research Quality Team.

Sarah: “The primary focus of my role is to ensure that electronic systems are properly qualified and validated. This is essential for regulatory compliance and the integrity of the data we handle. During the implementation of an electronic system, we test business processes to identify and mitigate risks early, ensuring trials run smoothly and adhere to the highest quality standards. Quality systems validation is fundamental in preserving the integrity of data collected throughout a clinical trial, contributing directly to the efficacy of new treatments and improving patient lives.”

In her work, Sarah embodies Profound’s values, particularly Excellence and Urgency. By swiftly identifying potential risks and creating high-quality validation processes, she ensures that every data point gathered is reliable and contributes to the company’s mission to improve lives.

In your role, how do you ensure quality and consistency across multiple sites in a nationwide network like Profound Research?

Sarah: “Ensuring quality and consistency across all Profound sites is the cornerstone of quality systems validation. To support a nationwide network, validation provides the assurance that our electronic systems not only meet the operational needs of our sites but also perform consistently for our end users. We achieve this by creating clearly defined, standardized processes so that every site in our network can consistently execute clinical trial activities and deliver high-quality data nationwide.”

Profound’s values of Solution Orientation and Compassion are evident in Sarah’s approach to supporting consistency across a diverse network of sites. She is focused on delivering efficient solutions and maintaining the integrity of data, which is crucial to patient outcomes and the trust of healthcare professionals.

What do you enjoy most about working as a member of the Quality Team at Profound Research?

Sarah: “Being part of the quality team at Profound allows me to make a tangible difference in the patient’s experience in clinical trials. Problem-solving and improving processes has always been a passion of mine. It’s exciting to apply this passion to advance Profound’s mission. Every improvement we make brings us one step closer to our vision of creating the absolute best patient-physician experience in clinical research.”

Sarah’s dedication to Compassion drives her work, aligning with Profound Research’s vision. Her commitment to making a positive impact on the patient experience strengthens the bond between patient and physician, while her focus on innovation ensures that Profound continuously enhances clinical trial processes for all involved.

Can you share an example of a challenge that led to a triumph—an experience where you faced difficulty while maintaining Profound’s high standards for quality?

Sarah: “Validating and implementing electronic systems has been my greatest challenge. Profound has a diverse group of employees with extensive experience in the clinical trial landscape. Collaborating with these experts presents varied perspectives, which can sometimes lead to differences of opinion. However, through collaboration, we’ve been able to turn those varied perspectives into opportunities for innovation. Together, we’ve developed high-quality processes that elevate our standards even further.”

Tell us something fun or unique about yourself.

Sarah: “My parents used to own a small-town restaurant in Aransas Pass, Texas. I started working for them when I was in the 4th grade; my aunt taught me how to count back change, and since I was the only employee not stealing money, I ended up as the head cashier. It taught me responsibility early on and gave me a unique start in understanding the value of integrity.”

Sarah’s journey to Profound Research has been filled with valuable lessons and unique experiences that have shaped her into the passionate and skilled professional she is today. Her commitment to excellence, compassion, and continuous improvement truly reflects the values at the heart of Profound Research. We’re thrilled to have Sarah on our team, driving forward our shared mission of improving lives by setting new standards for quality in clinical trials.

As Profound Research celebrates World Quality Week, we’re excited to highlight one of our Quality Team members whose dedication exemplifies our mission and values. Meet Tabitha “Tabi” Campbell, CCRC, our Learning and Development Specialist and a Clinical Research Professional with experience spanning Phase I-IV trials. With her deep-rooted commitment to quality and continuous improvement, Tabi plays a pivotal role in shaping a culture that places patient-physician relationships and high-quality research at the forefront. 

What motivated you to pursue a career focused on quality in clinical trials? 

“My research career started on the operational end, so having had the opportunity to conduct visits and coordinate trials has allowed me to see firsthand the importance of conducting trials with high standards,” Tabi shared. Her early experiences underscored for her that quality is essential—not only in terms of regulatory compliance but also in protecting the rights, safety, and welfare of every participant. This dedication aligns perfectly with Profound’s mission to improve lives by providing advanced therapeutic options while maintaining the highest ethical standards. 

Describe your role on the Profound Research Quality Team. 

Tabi’s role on the Quality Team centers around fostering a learning-focused culture. “I build a culture of learning within Profound by designing, implementing, and monitoring training that promotes continuous professional growth and aligns with organizational goals and industry standards,” she explained. Tabi works closely with various departments to develop an onboarding program that introduces new employees to Profound’s culture and core values. 

How do you ensure quality and consistency across multiple sites in a nationwide network like Profound Research? 

Consistency in quality across Profound’s expansive network is essential for maintaining our high standards and commitment to patient care. Tabi ensures this by aligning all employees with Profound’s quality compliance standards, offering standardized training programs, consistent onboarding, and ongoing professional development. “Using an LMS (Learning Management System) has allowed us to provide seamless, standardized training delivery and maintain consistency across all locations,” she said. This approach empowers each team member to deliver best-in-class service. 

At Profound Research, our core values are Compassion, Urgency, Solution Orientation, and Excellence. Which core value(s) do you align most within your role on the Quality team? 

Tabi resonates most strongly with Compassion and Excellence. Her commitment to creating a welcoming, supportive environment speaks to her compassionate approach, while her drive for continuous improvement reflects Profound’s emphasis on excellence. “It’s about being compassionate with each other and holding ourselves accountable to the highest standards,” she noted, underscoring her alignment with Profound’s core values. 

What do you enjoy most about working as a member of the Quality Team at Profound Research? 

Tabi appreciates the camaraderie and support that define her experience on the Quality Team. “Since joining, I’ve been able to share my passion, talent, and voice, and have been greeted with nothing but collaboration and support,” she said. This sense of teamwork reflects Profound’s commitment to a service-oriented, collaborative approach in everything we do. 

Can you share an example of a challenge that led to a triumph – a time you’ve faced difficulty while maintaining Profound’s standards for the highest of quality? 

One significant challenge for Tabi involved launching Profound’s Learning Management System. “Manual tracking of training completion left room for inconsistencies,” she explained. Implementing the new system required intensive collaboration and problem-solving, but the process allowed her to turn a potential weakness into a triumph. Her approach reflects Profound’s Solution Orientation, finding direct and effective answers to challenges in pursuit of excellence. 

Tell us something fun or unique about yourself. 

Tabi has a unique story that speaks to her resilience and passion for helping others. “When I was 5, I was involved in an accident that left me terrified of escalators,” she shared. “I overcame this fear in third grade with the help of a kind and patient teacher, whose compassion and support inspired me.” This experience not only impacted her personally but ultimately led her to a career in education, which eventually opened doors to her work in clinical research. 

At Profound Research, professionals like Tabi Campbell exemplify our mission of improving lives, our vision of creating the best patient-physician experience, and our values of Compassion, Urgency, Solution Orientation, and Excellence. As we celebrate World Quality Week, we recognize the dedication of our Quality Team and the essential role they play in fostering an environment where patients, partners, and colleagues alike feel supported, valued, and empowered. 

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a major global health issue, with over 55 million people affected worldwide. Early detection of AD is challenging, as there is currently no simple molecular test for diagnosing the disease. Many people, particularly those in underserved communities, are often diagnosed late when treatment options are limited. 

Profound Research, in collaboration with BioSpyder Technologies, is working to change this. We are working to develop a new gene expression test using TempO-Seq® technology, which analyzes blood samples collected from a fingerstick. This sample is dried on filter paper, making it easy to collect in a doctor’s office or at home. The goal is to create a fast, minimally invasive way to screen for Alzheimer’s disease. 

The Problem with Current Testing Methods 

Currently, diagnosing Alzheimer’s involves a complex and time-consuming process. Patients typically undergo cognitive testing, brain scans, and biomarker tests for proteins like tau and amyloid-β (Aβ). These tests require specialized equipment and trained medical professionals, making them inaccessible to many, particularly in underserved areas. In the U.S., Alzheimer’s disease affects 6.5 million people, with higher rates among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic Americans who often face barriers to healthcare. 

To address this, Profound Research aimed to help BioSpyder Technologies develop a test that is easy to use and widely available. The TempO-Seq® testing platform uses a small blood sample that can be self-collected or collected in any doctor’s office, making it more accessible to people who may not have easy access to specialized care. 

The TempO-Seq® Gene Expression Test 

In this study, we tested blood samples from three groups: patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease (PD), and healthy controls. From these samples, we identified a gene signature made up of 68 key genes. Using this gene signature, the test was able to accurately classify patients with AD, with an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.9, and patients with PD with an AUC of 0.94. These high accuracy rates show that the test can potentially be used to detect AD and PD early on. 

“Our goal is to improve access to early diagnosis for everyone, especially those in underserved communities,” said Gregory Sahagian, Chief Scientific Officer at Profound Research and Principal Investigator at The Neurology Center of Southern California. “This test has the potential to transform how we detect Alzheimer’s and get patients the help they need sooner.” 

Addressing Health Disparities 

One of the most significant benefits of this new test is its ability to reach people who might not have access to specialized care. Current diagnostic methods require multiple visits to specialists, which is not always possible for people living in rural areas or underserved communities. By allowing patients to collect their own samples at home, the TempO-Seq® test could help close this gap in care. 

Looking Ahead 

While further research is needed to confirm whether this test can detect Alzheimer’s at its earliest stages, the initial results are promising. As we continue to refine the test, Profound Research is committed to making it available to all patients, helping to improve early detection and reduce health disparities in Alzheimer’s care. 

For more details on this study, see the original publication: 
Seligmann, Bruce et al. ‘Molecular Gene Expression Testing to Identify Alzheimer’s Disease with High Accuracy from Fingerstick Blood’. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 1 Jan. 2024: 1–10. https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-alzheimers-disease/jad240174