Scientists in Shanghai have developed a new diagnostic method capable of differentiating between Parkinson’s disease and Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), two neurodegenerative conditions that have long presented challenges for clinical diagnosis due to their similar symptoms. The achievement follows around a decade of research and is expected to support earlier screening and more accurate treatment strategies for patients.
The scientific team identified and validated a new biomarker that enabled the development of an advanced diagnostic technique capable of distinguishing between the two disorders, reports
China Daily, a partner of TV BRICS.
The new diagnostic approach was tested on more than 200 clinical samples. Results showed that cerebrospinal fluid samples from patients with MSA produced a strong amplification response, while samples associated with Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and a form of neurodegenerative dementia demonstrated no significant response.
According to the researchers, both diseases initially present with similar symptoms, including slowed movement, tremors and instability while walking, making precise clinical diagnosis difficult during early stages. Neurodegenerative disorders currently affect more than 60 million people worldwide, increasing the importance of accurate and timely identification methods.
Lead scientist Li Dan, professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, stated that the discovery functions as a “classification code” hidden within cerebrospinal fluid, enabling precise differentiation between the conditions.
Researchers noted that the current testing method primarily relies on cerebrospinal fluid samples. At the same time, the team is exploring the possibility of adapting the technology for use with other bodily fluids, including blood, which could make future testing procedures less invasive and more accessible for patients.