New Device Can Check Markers for Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s Disease

Cutting-Edge Device Detects Early Markers of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Disease

New device detects markers for Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease

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Are you worried about Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease? Well, worry no more because researchers have developed a wireless, noninvasive device that can detect the biomarkers of these two neurological conditions. This amazing device uses electrical detection to identify specific proteins associated with Alzheimer’s (amyloid beta and tau) and Parkinson’s (alpha synuclein) in saliva and urine. It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s real!

Imagine having a portable diagnostic system that allows you to test for these neurodegenerative diseases in the comfort of your own home. No need to go to a clinic or a nursing home. The future is here! And it’s all thanks to co-researcher Ratnesh Lal and his team from the University of California-San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering.

So how does this magical device work? It contains a chip with a high-sensitivity transistor that uses DNA to detect the specific proteins associated with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Not only is electrical detection easier to implement than chemical detection, but it’s also more accurate. And that’s not all, folks! The device can wirelessly transmit the test results to a laptop or smartphone. Talk about convenience!

The researchers conducted tests on proteins derived from the brains of deceased Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s patients, and guess what? The biosensors in the device were able to detect the specific biomarkers for both conditions with great accuracy, on par with existing methods. It’s like having a superpower that helps you identify these diseases!

But here’s the best part: the device works even when other types of proteins are present in the samples. And because it can detect proteins at extremely low concentrations, only small samples are needed. It’s efficient and effective!

Now, I know what you’re thinking. What’s the catch? Well, detecting tau proteins proved to be a bit challenging. But fear not! The device can combine the results of all three biomarkers to provide a reliable overall result. It’s like having a team of superheroes working together to save the day!

The University of California-San Diego has licensed this groundbreaking technology to a biotechnology startup called Ampera Life. And guess who’s the chairman of that company? That’s right, the one and only Ratnesh Lal! But don’t worry, he doesn’t receive any financial support from the company for his research. It’s all about advancing science and helping people.

What’s next for this incredible device? Well, the researchers plan to test blood and cerebrospinal fluid before moving on to saliva and urine samples. These tests will take place in hospital settings and nursing homes. If everything goes well, Ampera Life aims to get approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration within the next five to six months. And if all goes according to plan, we could have this device on the market in just a year. Can you believe it?

So, dear readers, keep an eye out for this groundbreaking device. It’s a game-changer in the world of neurodegenerative disease detection. Say goodbye to uncertainty and hello to a future where early detection is within reach. Stay tuned for more exciting updates!

Sources: – University of California-San Diego, news release, Nov. 13, 2023 – Image SourceImage Source


Hey there, readers! Have you heard the news? A new device might just be the superhero we need to fight against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. This wireless, noninvasive device can detect the biomarkers of these conditions using electrical detection. It’s like having a hulk-like sensor that can identify specific proteins in your saliva and urine. Pretty amazing, right?

Imagine being able to test for these neurodegenerative diseases right at home or in a nursing home. No more long trips to the clinic! This device, created by the brilliant minds at the University of California-San Diego, is a portable diagnostic system that can give you peace of mind. It’s like having your own personal doctor on call.

But how does it work? Well, this device houses a high-sensitivity transistor chip that uses DNA to detect the proteins associated with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. It’s like having a tiny Sherlock Holmes investigating your samples. And the best part? The device can wirelessly transmit the results to your laptop or smartphone. It’s like having a telepathic connection with your health information.

The researchers did their homework and tested this device on proteins taken from the brains of deceased patients. And guess what? The results were astonishingly accurate, comparable to existing methods. It’s like having a lie detector for these proteins, only much more sophisticated. Now you can rest assured that your tests will be spot-on.

But wait, there’s more! This device is not easily tricked by other proteins that might be lurking in your samples. It can focus on what truly matters, even in low concentrations. It’s like having a laser-guided missile that only targets the proteins of interest. It’s precise and efficient!

There is one little challenge, though. Detecting one particular protein called tau can be a bit tricky. But fear not! This device can combine the results of all three biomarkers to provide an overall reliable result. It’s like having a team of Avengers working together to save the day. These scientists sure know how to assemble!

This groundbreaking technology has been licensed to a biotechnology startup called Ampera Life, led by none other than Ratnesh Lal. He may not wear a cape, but he’s definitely a superhero in the world of science. And don’t worry, he’s not in it for the money. He just wants to make the world a better place.

So what’s next for this device? The researchers will be testing blood and cerebrospinal fluid, taking it to the next level before moving on to saliva and urine samples. Their goal is to get approval from the FDA in the near future, so we can have this device in our hands within a year. It’s like waiting for the release of the latest superhero movie!

So, dear readers, keep an eye out for this incredible device. It might just be the lifeline we’ve been waiting for in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases. And remember, early detection is key! Stay tuned for more updates, and until then, stay super!

SOURCES:University of California-San Diego, news release, Nov. 13, 2023 – Image SourceImage Source with Quiz