Takeaway
Neurofilament light chain levels are increased in both ataxic and preataxic spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 and are linked to onset of ataxia.
Why this matters?
Neurofilament light chain levels have been proposed as circulating biomarkers in the ataxic stage of spinocerebellar ataxia type 1.
The findings of this multicentric study suggest that serum neurofilament light chain levels are easily accessible peripheral biomarkers for stratification of the most treatment-relevant preataxic stage, especially for capturing proximity-to-onset, and early neuronal damage in spinocerebellar ataxia type 1.