Alpha-synuclein biomarkers in saliva, skin, and CSF show diagnostic promise for Parkinson's disease, with seed amplification assays demonstrating high sensitivity and specificity. Salivary gland biopsies and oral brushings are being studied as less invasive detection methods, though clinical implementation still faces challenges.
Cocrystal Pharma advanced CDI-988 in a Phase 1b norovirus study and received FDA Fast Track designation. Nuvation Bio reported $18.5 million in IBTROZI net product revenues and presented updated TRUST trial data. Nautilus Biotechnology progressed its proteomics platform toward commercialization, maintaining a cash runway through 2027.
Recent studies associate blood biomarkers with brain atrophy and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease, while new DNA aptamers, retinal imaging, and speech analysis advance neurodegeneration detection and monitoring.
A new cerebrospinal fluid biomarker for DOPA decarboxylase (DDC) shows strong diagnostic potential for Lewy body disorders including Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. Validated across multiple cohorts, CSF DDC levels were significantly elevated in these conditions with high diagnostic accuracy. The biomarker correlated with alpha-synuclein pathology but plasma levels showed no diagnostic value.
Studies found gut microbiome changes linked to Parkinson’s risk before symptoms and hair mineral differences in diagnosed patients. Both findings need larger follow-up studies.
Prothena reported Q4 and full year 2025 financial results with $308.4 million in cash as partners Roche and Novo Nordisk initiated Phase 3 trials for prasinezumab and coramitug, both expected to complete in 2029.
Northwestern Medicine scientists discovered that N-acetyl-L-leucine (NALL), an FDA-approved compound, promotes neuroprotective effects in experimental Parkinson's disease models by targeting multiple molecular pathways simultaneously.
Nautilus Biotechnology reported Q4 2025 financial results with operating expenses of $15.4 million, down 23% year-over-year. The company launched its Iterative Mapping Early Access Program in January 2026 and expects full commercial availability in late 2026.
