Serum kynurenine and beta-alanine levels are associated with Wnt pathway gene expression in leukocytes of patients with Parkinson's disease

Abstract

Abstract Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world. Despite its worldwide prevalence, there is currently no clear explanation of the mechanism of this disease. Moreover, the lack of reliable and accurate biomarkers makes the early detection of PD difficult. Therefore, we aimed to investigate serum beta-alanine and kynurenine levels and the expression of Wnt pathway genes in leukocytes from patients with PD. Methods: Ninety patients (45 with PD and 45 healthy individuals) were enrolled in this study. 10 mL of blood samples were taken from all participants. The serum levels of beta-alanine and kynurenine were measured using ELISA, and the expression of Wnt pathway genes in leukocytes was determined using real-time PCR. Results: Serum levels of kynurenine and beta-alanine were higher in patients with PD than in the control group. Data analysis also showed that the expression of some genes of the Wnt signaling pathway in leukocytes was decreased. Conclusions: A correlation was observed between serum beta-alanine and kynurenine levels and the expression of the Wnt pathway gene in leukocytes in patients with PD. Therefore, these biomarkers can be used for early detection, monitoring, and treatment of patients with PD.