Abstract: The present invention is the protein of melanotransferrin, or an encoding nucleic acid of same, for use in the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD). The invention is a method of diagnosis of PD in a subject, for assessing the level of melanotransferrin in the saliva or in a saliva sample of the subject and determining whether the level is above or below a value of 8.6 ?g/ml, wherein a value below 8.6 ?g/ml is indicative of PD. Another aspect is a kit having at least one reagent, preferably an antibody, for the quantification of melanotransferrin in the saliva or in a saliva sample of a subject enabling the comparison of the quantification with a predetermined cut-off value.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases by means of the use of microparticles comprising genetically modified cells expressing neurotrophic and/or angiogenic factors and wherein said microparticles are administered by means of implantation at the cerebral cortex level.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide particles of a polymeric material containing cells therein, wherein said particles have a strength that is substantially greater than the microcapsules known in the state of the art.