MDS 2021 | The importance of identifying biomarkers of GBA-associated PD

Enza Maria Valente, MD, PhD, IRCCS Mondino Foundation & University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy, explains the importance of identifying early biomarkers that correlate with phenotypic severity and progression of glucocerebrosidase (GBA)-associated Parkinson’s disease (PD) and disease conversion in asymptomatic carriers. In addition to investigating levels of specific α-synuclein species in blood and cerebrospinal fluid, lysosomal markers have also been explored as there is evidence of lysosomal dysfunction in GBA-associated PD. Prof. Valente further highlights advancements in the field of neuroimaging and how this may help detect early changes, allowing differentiation of patient groups before clinical symptoms manifest. Future biomarker developments may enable further subgrouping of the GBA-associated PD population beyond mutation and phenotypic characteristics. This interview took place during the 2021 International Congress of Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders.