Eye tracking identifies biomarkers in α-synucleinopathies versus progressive supranuclear palsy

• DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11136-5
• Publication Date: 2022-05-02T17:02:36Z
• Authors: Mahboubeh Habibi; Wolfgang H. Oertel; Brian J. White; Donald C. Brien; Brian C. Coe; Heidi C. Riek; Julia Perkins; Rachel Yep; Laurent Itti; Lars Timmermann; Christoph Best; Elisabeth Sittig; Annette Janzen; Douglas P. Munoz
• Keywords: Synucleinopathies; Tauopathy

Abstract Objectives This study (1) describes and compares saccade pupil abnormalities in patients with manifest alpha-synucleinopathies (αSYN: Parkinson’s disease (PD), Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)) a tauopathy (progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP)); (2) determines whether rapid-eye-movement sleep behaviour disorder (RBD), prodromal stage of αSYN, already have abnormal responses that may indicate risk for developing PD or MSA. Methods Ninety (46 RBD, 27 PD, 17 MSA) an 10 PSP patients, 132 healthy age-matched controls (CTRL) were examined 10-min video-based eye-tracking task (Free Viewing). Participants free to look anywhere on the screen while behaviours measured. Results MSA, spent more time fixating centre than CTRL. All patient groups made fewer macro-saccades (> 2 ◦ amplitude) smaller amplitude Saccade frequency was greater RBD other patients. Following clip change, saccades temporarily suppressed, then rebounded at slower pace CTRL all groups. had distinct, although discrete marked even PSP. The vertical rate reduced decreased most Clip changes produced large increases decreases luminance requiring constriction dilation, respectively. elicited constriction/dilation CTRL, MSA opposite. Conclusion but less pronounced Vertical gaze altered control differentiate from αSYN.