Abstract: Disclosed is a method for diagnosing a neurodegenerative disease in a subject. The method comprises obtaining from the subject a sample comprising at least one live blood cell, and optionally isolating at least one live blood cell from the sample. The method further comprises generating one or more multispectral or hyperspectral images of the at least one cell, and analysing spectral characteristics of autofluorescence from the at least one cell. Also disclosed is a system configured to aid in the detection or diagnosis of a neurodegenerative disease. Also disclosed is a method for selecting a subject for treatment for a neurodegenerative disease. Also disclosed is a method for monitoring the response of a subject to a therapeutic treatment for a neurodegenerative disease. Also disclosed is a protocol for monitoring the efficacy of a therapeutic treatment for a neurodegenerative disease.