AI-Powered Blood Test May Predict Parkinson's Years in Advance

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Facts

  • Researchers at University College London (UCL) and the University of Göttingen have claimed that a new blood test that leverages artificial intelligence (AI) can predict whether or not someone will develop Parkinson's disease as many as seven years in advance.1
  • The scientists identified eight proteins present in blood that were connected with inflammation and protein degradation. With the help of AI, the test correctly predicted that 16 out of 72 patients would develop Parkinson's based on the presence of those proteins.2
  • The 72 patients all had Rapid Eye Movement Behavior Disorder, which is linked to neurodegenerative disease, and followed up with subjects over 10 years. Their test was 100% accurate, with the earliest prediction being seven years in advance.3
  • Parkinson's disease is an 'increasingly prevalent' neurodegenerative disease that targets the nervous system, with research complicated by the ailment's diverse causes. This study will help researchers target 'objectively measurable markers' associated with disease progression.4
  • The disease affects nearly 10M worldwide and causes stiffness, slow movement, and shaking caused by the destruction of nerve cells in the body. There's currently no cure or treatment, and this test could flag patients who would benefit from preemptive experimental remedies.2
  • While more studies are needed, senior author Kevin Mills suggests that it could be rolled out to hospitals in the UK within two years. The diagnostic could replace invasive lumbar punctures, with Parkinson's UK saying the test represents a 'major step forward.'3

Sources: 1Guardian, 2BBC News, 3Euronews and 4Nature.

Narratives

  • Narrative A, as provided by New York Times. While this diagnostic is a huge step forward, we must address the political roadblocks that prevent research into stem cell treatments that could treat and even cure Parkinson's entirely. Disinformation and partisan politics could jeopardize treatments and research that make use of fetal stem cells in the US, which have shown promise in treating many sorts of diseases. We need to take a stand against political intrusion into medicine.
  • Narrative B, as provided by irishnews.com. The biggest concern with Parkinson's is not how to treat it, but what causes it. This AI-enhanced test will change the lives of people with a debilitating disease we are still in the dark about. What's more concerning is that common household products may be linked to the development of this disabling condition. Technologically advanced efforts like these may end up suggesting that efforts need to be focused on the toxins in daily life that contribute to this medical mystery.

Predictions