New test to detect early signs Parkinson’s disease one step closer
Researchers at Edinburgh University say early diagnosis could allow patients, such as Michael J Fox, the chance to join drug trials
A TEST to detect early Parkinson’s disease is a step closer.
Researchers used ultra-sensitive technology to check spinal fluid for the brain condition, which gives characteristic shakes.
It detects a protein called alpha-synuclein which is present in healthy brains but clumps together in the cells of people with Parkinson’s and some dementias.
Edinburgh University scientists accurately identified 19 of 20 Parkinson’s samples, as well as three who were at-risk.
Around 127,000 Brits have Parkinson’s.
Back To The Future hero Michael J Fox, 55, also has it.
Docs said early diagnosis could allow patients to join drug trials.
Experts want the test validated with a larger sample.