Scientists at Lund University have identified a blood marker, known as DOPA decarboxylase (DCC), that could play a pivotal role in the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and similar neurological disorders by revealing damage to the dopamine system within the brain. This breakthrough presents a potential for more straightforward and early intervention for these debilitating conditions.
The team at Lund University found that this particular biomarker can pinpoint the presence of Parkinsonian disorders, with their research being documented in ‘Nature Aging’.
The biomarker, DOPA decarboxylase (DCC), was observed to have higher levels in patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease and other conditions that involve a deficit of dopamine in the brain.
Conversely, the biomarker levels were not elevated in patients with other neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. Remarkably, an increase in DCC levels was detectable in individuals with Parkinson’s well before the onset of clinical symptoms.
Innovations in Protein Analysis
Employing sophisticated protein analysis techniques, the researchers were able to assess thousands of proteins at once using minute sample quantities. In a study of 428 participants, they sought biomarkers indicative of damage to the brain’s dopamine system, which could be present in patients exhibiting motor or cognitive impairments. They concluded that the presence of a dopamine system disorder correlates with higher DDC biomarker levels, irrespective of the disease’s progression stage. The notable aspect of this discovery is the biomarker’s detectability in the blood, where it is significantly raised, notably in those with Parkinson’s disease, according to Professor Oskar Hansson of Lund University and consultant at Skåne University Hospital.
Validation and Diagnostic Significance
The findings were corroborated with a secondary group comprising 152 individuals. The researchers also validated the presence of the newly identified biomarker in increased concentrations in the blood by examining plasma samples from an additional 174 people. While PET scans can also detect dopamine system damage, they are expensive and complex procedures limited to specialized facilities.
With the symptomatic overlap of various neurodegenerative diseases, there is a heightened risk of misdiagnosis and consequent incorrect treatment. Hence, the development of reliable diagnostic methods is of paramount importance. Professor Hansson envisages a future where different brain disorders might be treated proactively, before symptoms manifest, with blood markers playing a crucial role in identifying suitable candidates for such early interventions cost-effectively.
For further reference, see “DOPA decarboxylase is an emerging biomarker for Parkinsonian disorders including preclinical Lewy body disease” by Joana B. Pereira et al., published on 18 September 2023 in Nature Aging, DOI: 10.1038/s43587-023-00478-y.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Parkinson’s disease biomarker
What is the new biomarker discovered by Lund University researchers?
The new biomarker discovered is called DOPA decarboxylase (DCC). It is a blood marker that indicates damage to the dopamine system in the brain, which is significant in the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and other similar neurological disorders.
How does DOPA decarboxylase (DCC) aid in diagnosing Parkinson’s disease?
DCC levels are elevated in individuals with Parkinson’s disease and in those with other diseases resulting in a dopamine deficiency in the brain. Elevated DCC levels can be detected even before the onset of Parkinson’s symptoms, providing a means for earlier diagnosis and treatment.
What makes the discovery of DCC significant for neurodegenerative diseases?
The discovery of DCC is significant because it offers a simpler and more cost-effective method for the early detection and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, potentially before symptoms become apparent, thereby reducing the risk of misdiagnosis and improper treatment.
Can the DCC biomarker differentiate between Parkinson’s disease and other brain diseases like Alzheimer’s?
Yes, the DCC biomarker levels were found to be normal in other brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting that it is specific to Parkinsonian disorders and conditions involving dopamine deficiency.
What techniques were used to measure the DCC biomarker?
Researchers used advanced protein measurement techniques that allowed for the simultaneous measurement of thousands of proteins in a small sample. This was conducted in a study involving 428 individuals to identify the presence of the DCC biomarker.
Was the discovery of the DCC biomarker validated in any way?
Yes, the initial findings regarding the DCC biomarker were verified in an additional group of 152 individuals. Furthermore, increased levels of the biomarker in blood were confirmed by analyzing blood plasma samples from 174 individuals.
How does the identification of DCC compare with current methods like PET scans in diagnosing brain dopamine system damage?
While PET camera examinations can detect damage to the dopamine system in the brain, they are costly and complex methods available only at specialized clinics. The identification of DCC in blood provides a more accessible and less expensive diagnostic alternative.
More about Parkinson’s disease biomarker
- Nature Aging Journal Article on DCC
- Lund University Research on Parkinson’s Disease
- Overview of Parkinson’s Disease Biomarkers
- Advances in Neurodegenerative Disease Research
- Understanding Dopamine System Damage
- Diagnostic Methods in Neurology
- Protein Measurement Techniques in Clinical Research
