TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A research team at National Sun Yat-sen University has developed a non-invasive imaging technology designed for diagnosing neurodegenerative diseases and brain strokes.

Originally intended to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the technology repurposes a medication to detect oxidative stress in the brain, a key factor in several neurological disorders. Assistant Professor Sun Yu-yo (孫羽佑) led the project with the University of Virginia and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, per CNA.

The team adapted edaravone, a drug initially developed for ALS, into a novel positron emission tomography (PET) imaging tool. This technique can detect changes in oxidative stress distribution in the brain, enabling early observation and intervention in the early stages of brain strokes and neurodegenerative diseases, and increasing the chances of successful treatment.

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals—unstable molecules, atoms, or ions with unpaired electrons—and the body's ability to neutralize them with antioxidants. Studies have linked oxidative stress to various health issues, including aging, cataracts, cardiovascular problems, brain dysfunction, and cancer.

Oxidative stress plays a key role in the early stages of brain strokes and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and ALS. In response, the research team has developed a PET imaging technology that visualizes oxidative stress in real time, offering insights for clinical diagnosis, treatment evaluation, and monitoring disease progression.

Sun stated that this innovation repurposes a clinical drug for medical imaging purposes. While the technology has successfully passed animal trials, clinical applications are still in the testing phase.

Human clinical trials are expected in the future, potentially leading to a new, non-invasive diagnostic tool for neurodegenerative diseases and brain strokes, advancing the fields of precision medicine and neuroimaging.