Exploring the Application Potential of α-Synuclein Molecular Probes in Early Diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease: Focus on Imaging Methods

Abstract

This review aims to explore the potential application of α-synuclein (α-syn) molecular probes in the early diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD), particularly through systematic evaluation using medical imaging methods. In recent years, The abnormal aggregation of α-syn within the central nervous system is now recognized as a central driver of PD pathophysiology, solidifying its role as a critical diagnostic and prognostic biomarker. Early diagnosis of PD is critical for enabling precision therapeutic interventions and mitigating neurodegenerative progression, thereby enhancing long-term functional outcomes and the quality of life. However, challenges remain in clinical practice, particularly concerning the late timing of diagnosis and the lack of specific biomarkers. By analyzing the existing literature, we will assess the effectiveness of different imaging techniques combined with α-syn probes and discuss their advantages and limitations in clinical applications. These imaging methods can provide visualization of early pathological changes, helping to improve the recognition rate of PD. Finally, we emphasize the importance of future research to explore new molecular probes and imaging technologies that can improve early diagnosis rates and treatment outcomes for PD.

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease; biomarker; medical imaging; molecular probes; α-synuclein.

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After surface modification, Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are coupled with α-targeting groups to form α-syn targeting probes, which cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and bind to the abnormally aggregated α-syn in substantia nigra pars compacta neurons (SNPCs) through intermolecular interactions, indirectly reflecting the level of α-syn deposition in the brains of PD rats through MRI imaging.