How early can new Parkinson's blood tests detect the disease?

New research suggests that blood tests could potentially detect Parkinson's disease biomarkers up to 20 years before motor symptoms become apparent.

What technology was used to find early Parkinson's biomarkers?

Machine learning was employed to identify patterns related to early cellular changes in DNA repair and stress response within blood samples.

When could blood tests for early Parkinson's diagnosis be available?

The researchers involved in the study predict that blood tests for early Parkinson's diagnosis could become more common within clinical practice within the next five years.

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Parkinson's: Blood Test Detects Disease Years Early

31 Jan

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Summary

Blood test may detect Parkinson's biomarkers up to 20 years prior.
Machine learning identified early cell changes, not present in healthy.
Study predicts blood tests for Parkinson's within five years.

Parkinson's: Blood Test Detects Disease Years Early

Researchers have identified potential biomarkers in blood that could detect Parkinson's disease up to 20 years before motor symptoms manifest. The study, a collaboration between Chalmers University of Technology and Oslo University Hospital, utilized machine learning to pinpoint specific cellular changes related to DNA repair and stress response.

These detected patterns were unique to the early stages of the disease and were not observed in healthy individuals or those with advanced Parkinson's. This discovery offers a critical opportunity for early diagnosis when treatments may be more effective in slowing disease progression.

The findings, published in npj Parkinson's Disease, suggest that widespread screening via cost-effective blood tests could be feasible. The research team anticipates that such diagnostic tools may be integrated into clinical practice within the next five years.