Brain tumours may be detected thanks to a urine test.
Meanwhile, an American research team is turning its attentions to Parkinson’s, having discovered a biomarker that could help accelerate pre-symptom diagnosis.
Parkinson’s is caused when the body produces low levels of dopamine, and high levels of abnormal proteins.
The latter, known as alpha-synuclein, are notoriously difficult to detect, even when present in large volumes. Cue an amplifying detection technique.
As part of a ten-year study involving 1,123 participants, which analysed fluid samples from the brain and spinal cord, abnormal protein levels were correctly identified in 87.7% of cases.
Video recordings and artificial intelligence have proved equally helpful. And an app counteracts tremors while surfing the web.
