DNA triplet repeat expansion-associated ataxias, Friedreich's ataxia, and different types of spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are progressive multisystem neurodegenerative disorders. The diagnosis of this wide group of inherited ataxias is essentially based on clinical findings. Cell-free circulating DNA in plasma has been considered as a powerful tool in clinical diagnosis and prognosis of several human diseases. In the present study, clinically suspected patients were assessed on the International Co-operative Ataxia Rating Scale and further confirmed by molecular analysis of DNA triplet repeats. Quantification of plasma DNA using a highly sensitive and DNA-specific PicoGreen fluorescent assay was done.

Quantification of Circulating Plasma DNA in Friedreich's Ataxia and Spinocerebellar Ataxia Types 2 and 12