Alpha-synuclein is a protein in neural tissue of unknown function, except that its mutations or post translation modifications have been implicated in Parkinson’s disease.  Now, scientists at the University of Lancaster (UK) believe phosphorylated alpha-synuclein is a useful blood marker not only for diagnosing PD, but also for finding it at very early stages.  Another possible use is in testing workers who would be exposed to hazardous chemicals (e.g. first responders, soldiers, refinery rough necks), resulting in a greater risk for developing PD later in life-as may well be the case among uncompensated Korean War veterans with PD today after heavy exposure to DDT sixty some years ago.   MORE