Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is recognized as the world’s most rapidly expanding neurological disorder. It has the highest incidence and prevalence growth rates and its associated disability adjusted life years (DALYs) outstripping all other neurodegenerative conditions with a compounded annual growth rate of 11.3%.
According the Parkinson’s Foundation there are today more than 10M cases worldwide. This number will double within 10 years.
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Parkinson’s is primarily a movement-related neurodegenerative disorder. The disease is driven by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the part of the brain called the substantia nigra. It is characterized by the accumulation and the aggregation of the protein alpha-synuclein, which forms dark staining cells called Lewy bodies.
Several molecular mechanisms may contribute to the onset of Parkinson’s such as oxidative stress, inflammation, dimer and trimer formation of the protein alpha-synuclein. Environmental pollution and pesticides may also play a role in the development of the disease.
Currently, the standard for diagnosis is based on a clinical assessment of signs and symptoms, typically disorders in muscle movement. However, recent research indicates that by the time the clinical diagnosis is made up 50%- 70% of the neurons responsible for producing dopamine have been destroyed. The disease is so well established that it continues to progress regardless of drug therapy. A rapid simple diagnostic test, such as ATED’s tRF blood test, has the potential to detect PD in its earliest stages (prodromal) before motor signs and symptoms appear. This opens a window of opportunity for earlier treatment, which could alter the progression of disease, or ultimately, lead to improved quality of life and possibly prevention.
A clinical trial at five major U.S. medical centers is planned for 2026. Once completed we will be seeking FDA approval.
For more information on ATED’s diagnostic test, please click here