A neurological progressive disease, Parkinson’s is often diagnosed only after significant brain damage has occurred, when most relevant neurons are already lost, underscoring the need for early detection.
However, in a major breakthrough, Israeli researchers have developed a new RNA-based blood test for detecting Parkinson’s disease (PD) long before symptoms emerge.
The new method, detailed in the journal Nature Aging, measures specific RNA fragments in the blood. It focuses on two key biomarkers: a repetitive RNA sequence that accumulates in Parkinson’s patients, and mitochondrial RNA — which declines as the disease progresses, said the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU).
By measuring the ratio between these fragments, the test can identify the disease in its early stages.
“This discovery represents a major advancement in our understanding of Parkinson’s disease and offers a simple, minimally invasive blood test as a tool for early diagnosis,” said Prof. Hermona Soreq from the varsity.
“By focusing on tRFs, we’ve opened a new window into the molecular changes that occur in the earliest stages of the disease.”
In experiments, the test successfully distinguished pre-symptomatic Parkinson’s patients from healthy controls with an accuracy of 86 per cent, outperforming current diagnostic methods.
Notably, the study also found that levels of the first type of fragments drop after deep brain stimulation, linking them to disease mechanisms and treatment responses.
The researchers said that this discovery paves the way for early interventions and treatments that could change the course of the disease, potentially improving patient outcomes through timely diagnosis and care.
Lead researcher Nimrod Madrer emphasised the importance of early detection, noting that Parkinson’s disease is often diagnosed only after significant brain damage has occurred.
“This test has the potential to alleviate the uncertainty faced by patients and clinicians, offering a reliable and rapid method to identify the disease in its earliest stages,” Madrer added.
The prevalence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) in India ranges from 15 to 43 per 100,000 people, highlighting a significant public health concern. The statistic from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in 2022 sheds light on the troubling trend of early-onset Parkinson’s disease, where nearly 40-45% of patients experience initial motor symptoms between the ages of 22 and 49.
Early-onset Parkinson’s is particularly concerning as it affects a younger demographic that may have family, work, and social responsibilities. This can lead to significant challenges not only for the individuals afflicted but also for their families and the healthcare system.
The fact that a considerable percentage of PD patients in India are diagnosed with early-onset symptoms suggests a need for greater awareness, research, and resources dedicated to understanding the causes and treatment of Parkinson’s disease in younger populations. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, which can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected.
Public health initiatives that focus on increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and providing support resources for patients and caregivers is critical in addressing this disease.
