Identifying Biomarkers for ALS in Blood Samples
Author Information
Author(s): Nardo Giovanni, Pozzi Silvia, Pignataro Mauro, Lauranzano Eliana, Spano Giorgia, Garbelli Silvia, Mantovani Stefania, Marinou Kalliopi, Papetti Laura, Monteforte Marta, Torri Valter, Paris Luca, Bazzoni Gianfranco, Lunetta Christian, Corbo Massimo, Mora Gabriele, Bendotti Caterina, Bonetto Valentina
Primary Institution: Dulbecco Telethon Institute, Milano, Italy
Hypothesis
Can specific protein biomarkers in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) help diagnose and monitor amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
Conclusion
The study found that PBMC multiprotein biomarkers can significantly aid in diagnosing ALS and understanding its progression.
Supporting Evidence
- PBMC protein biomarkers can distinguish ALS patients from healthy controls with 98% accuracy.
- Longitudinal studies showed that certain protein levels change over time in ALS patients.
- Proteins associated with ALS were also found in a rat model, indicating translational relevance.
- Specific proteins were linked to disease severity and progression in ALS patients.
Takeaway
Researchers found special proteins in blood that can help doctors tell if someone has ALS, a serious disease that affects muscles.
Methodology
The study used two-dimensional difference in gel electrophoresis to analyze protein biomarkers in PBMC from ALS patients and healthy controls.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the selection of patient samples and controls.
Limitations
The study's findings need to be validated in larger, prospective cohorts.
Participant Demographics
The study included 94 sporadic ALS patients and 64 controls, with 41 healthy individuals and 23 with non-ALS neurological disorders.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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