Researchers analyse compounds in Parkinson’s sebum

Researchers at University of Manchester’s Institute of Biotechnology have used mass spectrometry to analyse sebum from people who had previously been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, to identify volatile components that might produce a specific smell that can be detected by certain people. They used 60 participants, with and without Parkinson’s disease, and were able to detect three specific compounds in Parkinson’s sebum: hippuric acid, eicosane and octadecanal. All of these compounds appeared to be connected with altered levels of neurotransmitter compounds found in the brains of Parkinson’s patients, together with other known biomarkers for the disease. The researchers have a model that can identify and diagnose Parkinson’s at all states of the condition.
Professor Perdita Barran, professor of mass spectrometry at MIB, and study lead, said: “Now we have proved the molecular basis for the unique odour associated with Parkinson’s we want to develop this into a test. This could have a huge impact not only for earlier and conclusive diagnosis but also help patients monitor the effect of therapy. We hope to apply this to at risk patient groups to see if we can diagnose pre-motor symptoms, and assist with potential early treatment.”
Deputy director of research at Parkinson’s UK, Professor David Dexter, said: “Finding changes in the oils of the skin in Parkinson’s is an exciting discovery. More research is needed to find out at what stage a skin test could detect Parkinson’s, or whether it is also occurs in other Parkinson’s related disorders, but the results so far hold real potential. Both to change the way we diagnose the condition and it may even help in the development of new and better treatments for the 145,000 people living with Parkinson’s in the UK.”