Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have identified biomarkers for Parkinson’s disease. These markers appear in the earliest stages before significant brain damage occurs. Consequently, the team found traces in the blood that only last for a limited time. This discovery offers a vital window of opportunity for early treatment.
Healthcare providers could begin testing these blood samples within five years. Currently, Parkinson’s affects over 10 million people globally. This number will likely double by 2050 as the world population ages.
The Challenge of Late Diagnosis
At present, no established screening method exists for early detection. Doctors usually diagnose the condition only after motor symptoms appear. Unfortunately, 50 to 80 per cent of relevant brain cells are often already damaged by then.
“The study is an important step towards facilitating early identification,” says first author Danish Anwer. Researchers aim to counteract the disease’s progression before extensive damage happens. This study represents a collaboration between Chalmers University and Oslo University Hospital.
A Window of Opportunity Found
The research team focused on two specific cellular processes. These processes can occur up to 20 years before motor symptoms develop.
• DNA Damage Repair: The built-in system cells use to fix internal errors.
• Cell Stress Response: A survival reaction where cells pause normal functions to prioritise protection.
The team used machine learning to discover distinct patterns of gene activities. These patterns only appear in patients during the early phase of the disease. Interestingly, these traces disappear once the disease progresses further.
Moving Toward Widespread Screening
Other researchers have looked at brain imaging or fluid analyses. However, these methods are often difficult to use for broad public screening. In contrast, blood tests are cost-effective and easily accessible.
“This paves the way for broad screening tests via blood samples,” notes Assistant Professor Annikka Polster. This method could change how we treat chronic neurological disorders globally.
Q&A: Understanding the New Parkinson’s Study
How does the new blood test work?
It identifies specific gene activity patterns related to DNA repair and cell stress. These patterns act as “biomarkers” that indicate the disease is starting.
Why is the “window of opportunity” so short?
The biological traces in the blood only exist for a limited period. Once the disease progresses and brain cells die, these specific gene patterns deactivate.
When will this be available for patients? Researchers believe these tests could begin appearing in healthcare settings within five years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What percentage of brain cells are lost before a typical diagnosis?
Between 50 and 80 per cent of relevant brain cells are usually gone before motor symptoms appear.
Can the disease be detected before physical symptoms start?
Yes, the early phase of the disease can last up to 20 years before physical signs develop.
Is there currently a cure for Parkinson’s?
No, there is currently no effective cure or established early screening method.
How many people will have Parkinson’s by 2050? The global number of affected individuals is expected to exceed 20 million by 2050.
