Creating blood tests for diagnosing multiple system atrophy and Parkinson's disease
Official title: Development of blood assays for multiple system atrophy and Parkinson disease
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10867644 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for ways to make it easier to tell the difference between multiple system atrophy and Parkinson's disease by testing blood samples for special markers, which could help with earlier diagnosis and better treatment for people with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $427,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG086722-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10867644 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing symptoms of Parkinson's disease or multiple system atrophy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurodegenerative disorders that do not exhibit symptoms of PD or MSA may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing blood assays to improve the diagnosis of multiple system atrophy (MSA) and Parkinson's disease (PD), which are challenging to differentiate due to similar symptoms. The team aims to identify biomarkers in blood that can indicate these neurodegenerative disorders, utilizing advanced flow cytometry technology to analyze extracellular vesicles that carry disease-specific markers. By simplifying the diagnostic process and making it less invasive, the research seeks to enhance early detection and treatment options for patients. The study will involve collecting blood samples and analyzing them for specific proteins associated with these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and accessible blood tests for early diagnosis of MSA and PD, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers from cerebrospinal fluid, but this approach using blood-based assays is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shi, Min — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Shi, Min
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.