'Game-changer' test spots signs of motor neurone disease before symptoms

Broadcaster Charlie Bird died aged 74 after a long battle with motor neurone disease earlier this month. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

A test that spots signs of motor neurone disease before symptoms appear has been hailed as a "game-changer" by scientists developing it.

The tool, known as TDP-43 aptamer, is able to detect damaged cell proteins in brain tissue samples.