Additionally , since aSyn-SAA currently reveals only whether abnormal synuclein is present or not , researchers funded by MJFF are working to make the test “ quantifiable ,” meaning that it would not just detect the protein , but measure the amount of the protein present ( similar to how a cholesterol test reveals counts of various lipids in the blood ). A quantifiable test would be more informative to disease staging efforts and shed greater light on the biology that takes place in brain and body cells as Parkinson ’ s arises and progresses . ɑSyn-SAA is already proving to be transformative for research , informing and shaping better and faster trials .
RESEARCH
THE MICHAEL J . FOX FOUNDATION 2023 YEAR IN REVIEW
And importantly , while the assay is already impacting the research landscape , it requires development and optimization . The test currently uses spinal fluid drawn through a lumbar puncture , which is relatively difficult to obtain . MJFF will work to develop the test to use a blood draw , nasal swab or skin biopsy , enabling broader use in research and patient care .
Additionally , since aSyn-SAA currently reveals only whether abnormal synuclein is present or not , researchers funded by MJFF are working to make the test “ quantifiable ,” meaning that it would not just detect the protein , but measure the amount of the protein present ( similar to how a cholesterol test reveals counts of various lipids in the blood ). A quantifiable test would be more informative to disease staging efforts and shed greater light on the biology that takes place in brain and body cells as Parkinson ’ s arises and progresses . ɑSyn-SAA is already proving to be transformative for research , informing and shaping better and faster trials .
Plans are underway to expand testing with the aSyn assay in PPMI . The study has gathered data from individuals 60 and up , the average age when symptoms appear , but the scope is widening to include at-risk individuals starting as early as age 40 so that researchers can learn more about how early the disease begins biologically , before the onset of visible outward symptoms . What ’ s more , the results of such testing are expected to shed light not only on motor symptoms , but non-motor as well , including adding to understanding of why some people experience primarily cognitive dysfunction in the form of Lewy body dementia .
This biomarker also is being integrated into MJFF ’ s Path to Prevention ( P2P ) platform trial , which will be built on PPMI ’ s infrastructure to test , for the first time , potentially preventive therapeutics for Parkinson ’ s disease .
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