New Imaging Tool Targets Degenerative Diseases

Researchers from South Dakota State University recently discovered a method of measuring cells utilized in fighting oxidative stress, the primary cause behind many neurodegenerative diseases, which currently have few methods of deeper analysis. “Thiols are consumed during oxidative stress, so we see lower thiol levels,” said the author of the study. “Therefore, the level of thiols is used as one of the indices that reflect whether there is oxidative stress.” The research team developed the first imaging reagent which can analyze thiol levels in complete living cells, whereas previous methods relied on destroying tissue in order to dissect its remains. By using a chemical reaction to gauge the presence of thiol, researchers created a way to cause thiol cells to create fluorescence, which can then be measured to gauge overall cell health. While currently only general levels can be determined, new research will hopefully allow targeting of subcellular structures in order to determine exact failure points within cells, and clearly diagnosis the exact dysfunction. A non-toxic reagent that could be used for overall diagnostic imaging is the ultimate goal. To learn more about this study, click here.