*This novel test measures transfer RNA fragments (tRF’s) in nucleated red blood cells, detecting the disease at its earliest stages – before major symptoms appear. Using a patented specific oligonucleotide sequence as a biomarker, we detected early stage PD in both genetic and sporadic cases in a research study.
*Currently, Parkinson’s is diagnosed by qualitative methods and only after significant (50%-70%) neuronal cell loss. Furthermore, 20%-25% of cases are currently misdiagnosed. By contrast, our tRNA test could be used at the earliest stage and thereby distinguish between PD and Alzheimer’s disease, Dementia with Lewy Body and possibly other neurodegenerative diseases, e.g PSP, MSA and ET.
*Our test may enable early intervention and importantly track disease progression which could offer new hope for timely and effective treatment.
*A clinical trial is planned for this year and once completed we will seek FDA approval.
*Note, the PD tRF test is not yet FDA approved.
DBS is used to control the “off” periods in Parkinson’s patients who are not fully responding to their current medication. There are about 12,000 cases per year in the U.S.
Until now there has been no way to quantify the benefit of this procedure.