Tiny Gold Particles Offer Hope For Early Detection Of Parkinson’s Disease

Researchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, have developed a novel nanotechnology-based approach that could enable early detection of Parkinson’s Disease (PD), a debilitating neurological disorder affecting millions worldwide.

The study, recently accepted for publication in Nanoscale (Royal Society of Chemistry), focuses on ultrasmall gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) coated with amino acids to selectively detect different forms of α-synuclein, a protein closely linked to PD. The protein changes from a harmless monomeric form to toxic aggregates that damage brain cells, making early identification critical.

Dr. Sharmistha Sinha, senior scientist at INST and lead researcher of the study, explained, “By engineering gold nanoclusters coated with proline and histidine, we achieved selective ‘stickiness’ — proline-coated clusters bind to the normal α-synuclein, while histidine-coated clusters attach to the toxic aggregates. This distinction allows for sensitive detection of the disease at an early stage.”

The team conducted extensive experiments, including protein purification, synthesis and characterization of nanoclusters through advanced imaging and spectroscopy techniques, and interaction studies using electrochemical methods. The system was also tested successfully in human-derived neuroblastoma cells, affirming its potential for biological applications.

With Parkinson’s disease on the rise in India due to an aging population, early diagnosis remains a challenge. Currently, most patients receive a diagnosis only after significant neurodegeneration has occurred, limiting treatment options.

This innovative sensor offers a promising avenue for earlier intervention, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare burdens.

The research was supported by PhD students Harpreet Kaur and Ishani Sharma, in collaboration with experts from the CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology (IMTECH), Chandigarh.

Dr. Sinha highlighted the broader implications: “Our work also lays the foundation for detecting other protein misfolding disorders like Alzheimer’s disease using similar nanotechnology. By developing a label-free, low-cost, and clinically adaptable tool, we hope to bring accessible diagnostics closer to patients.”

The study marks a significant step towards leveraging nanotechnology in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases, aligning with global efforts to enhance early detection and management, said the researchers.

Parkinson’s disease currently affects approximately 300 to 400 individuals per 100,000 population in India. Experts warn that this number is expected to double by 2030, posing a significant challenge to the country’s healthcare system.

Alongside dementia, Parkinson’s is emerging as one of the major non-communicable degenerative disorders that will increasingly strain healthcare resources in India. While the majority of PD patients are over the age of 50, there is a worrying rise in the incidence of the disease among younger populations as well.

Currently, India accounts for a sizeable portion of the global Parkinson’s burden. Estimates suggest that over one million Indians

live with the disease, though under-diagnosis and lack of awareness mean the true figures may be much higher. Parkinson’s primarily affects movement and coordination, often causing tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance, eventually impacting quality of life.