Alterity Therapeutics (ASX:ATH) said findings of a study published in the NeuroImage journal support quantitative susceptibility mapping as an objective imaging biomarker to facilitate the earlier diagnosis of multiple system atrophy (MSA), according to a Monday filing with the Australian bourse.

Alterity is advancing its ATH434 lead candidate into a phase three program for multiple system atrophy, a neurodegenerative disease that leads to the failure of the autonomic nervous system and impaired movement.

The company said it used quantitative susceptibility mapping in a phase two trial in which ATH434 helped improve diagnostic accuracy and provided "objective evidence of target engagement."

The peer-reviewed publication validates the company's approach and "reinforces the role of [quantitative susceptibility mapping] as a biomarker for iron-modulating therapies in MSA," Alterity CEO David Stamler said.

The company's shares fell 9% in recent Monday trade.