Research on Parkinson's disease and its treatment. Covers mitochondrial protection, genetic progression markers, antibody therapies, and disease costs.
Mount Sinai researchers identified how APOE4 damages brain blood vessels, promoting abnormal protein buildup and neurodegeneration. They found that blocking TGF-β signaling restored pericyte coverage, reducing fibrosis and vascular amyloid accumulation.
A new drug, Kamuvudine K-9, has been shown to preserve nerve fibers and halt neurological damage in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. The drug, derived from HIV drugs, has been found to be more effective than existing treatments in restoring function and reducing inflammation.
Researchers identified shared and disease-specific molecular changes in human brain tissue, contributing to neurodegeneration, psychiatric illness, and cognitive decline. The collection establishes a foundational resource for understanding brain disorders, accelerating discovery and therapy development.
JMIR Neurotechnology invites submissions on digital health technologies in Parkinson disease, focusing on measurement and intervention. The call for papers aims to address challenges in validation, reproducibility, and clinical integration of these measurements.
Jun Takahashi, MD, PhD, has been awarded the 2026 Ogawa-Yamanaka Stem Cell Prize for pioneering the translation of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell biology into regenerative therapies for Parkinson's disease. He has achieved the world's first clinical approval for iPS cell-derived cell transplantation.
A new brain atlas reveals that neurons build their identity in the first hours of life, rather than inheriting it from their parent cells. The atlas, which mapped nearly 250,000 fly brain cells, shows that neuronal identity is established through a flexible, modular system involving different DNA switches and regulatory proteins.
Researchers found three herbal extracts protect mitochondrial function in a cellular model of Parkinson’s disease, suggesting a potential treatment. The extracts, including Uncaria rhynchophylla, Gardenia jasminoides, and Scutellaria baicalensis, improved cell viability and mitochondrial function in cells with reduced VPS13C expression.
A new study identified MC1R loss-of-function variants as markers of faster Parkinson's disease progression, with carriers experiencing 30-50% faster motor decline. The findings suggest a simple genetic test could improve prognostic assessment and clinical trial design for patients.
Researchers develop innovative masking technology to deliver antibodies directly into brain cells, targeting proteins inside cells. The technology, called SL4, enables antibodies to reach previously inaccessible targets, opening new possibilities for treating diseases like Parkinson's and cancer.
A new study estimates that Parkinson's disease could cause a cumulative macroeconomic loss of CNY 473 billion between 2020 and 2040. The disease affects China's economy by reducing labor force participation, productivity, and investment in education and infrastructure.
The Starr Healthspan Innovation Alliance will bridge the gap between scientific discovery and life-changing treatments for age-related diseases. The partnership will expand clinical trials and support groundbreaking laboratory research to extend healthy lifespan.
Researchers at Barrow Neurological Institute discovered a link between wildfire smoke and neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Wildfire smoke particles activate astrocytes, leading to inflammation and damage to nearby brain cells.
Researchers investigated NDUFA11's role in Parkinson's disease, finding it maintains mitochondrial function and integrity. Impaired NDUFA11 function contributes to mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and PD-related abnormalities.
A new study reveals that Parkinson's disease costs Europe €22.8 billion annually, with direct medical and non-medical costs, informal care, and lost productivity contributing to the total burden. The condition's prevalence in Europe has nearly doubled since 1990, with Germany recording the highest national costs at €5.7 billion.
Researchers at JAX-NYSCF will create and share human stem cell models to better understand Parkinson's disease development. The team aims to create a shared platform of rigorously validated models, data, and protocols to accelerate therapeutic discovery.
A new study found that people with Parkinson’s disease have altered extracellular vesicles in their stool samples, suggesting changes in microbial communication. The study suggests that these vesicles could serve as biomarkers for the disease and potentially reveal new therapeutic targets.
A study finds that dementia with Lewy bodies preferentially affects certain brain regions, including those with genes linked to mitochondrial function and synapses. These regions show distinctive patterns of serotonin, dopamine, and GABA receptors, suggesting a potential target for new treatments.
Researchers from the University of Osaka found that a protein associated with amyloidogenic light chain disease forms amyloid in areas of constrained geometry when subjected to shear stress. This study, published in FEBS Journal, suggests that mechanical pressure and chemical inhibitors may help dissolve amyloids.
The publication of the alpha-synuclein seed amplification assay (αSyn-SAA) biomarker highlights a decade of collaborative progress in biomarker development. This milestone enables earlier testing of new treatments for Parkinson's disease, which could delay or prevent disease onset and progression.
A large population-based study found that emergency diagnoses are common across multiple conditions, including Parkinson’s disease and coronary heart disease, and are consistently associated with worse outcomes. The study suggests that emergency diagnosis is a common phenomenon across diverse diseases and is linked to higher mortality ...
Researchers suggest that targeting tiny protein aggregates known as oligomers, which form early in the disease process, may lead to breakthroughs in treating protein-misfolding diseases. Oligomers are increasingly believed to drive cellular damage, and their early formation may be more toxic than large protein deposits.
Salk Institute researchers found microglia's novel way to contribute to ALS progression and death, using TAM receptors to find and kill motor neurons in spinal cords of mice with ALS. The study suggests a new target for therapy innovation, but notes the complexity of variables involved.
Researchers have discovered a gene linked to Parkinson's disease may also strengthen the body's ability to fight dangerous infections. The study found that a well-studied mutation in the LRRK2 gene increases the production of reactive oxygen species, making immune cells more effective at eliminating intracellular bacteria.
A nationwide study found that people living within 500 feet of dry cleaners had a 14% greater risk of developing Parkinson's disease compared to those living further away. The study, led by Barrow Neurological Institute, highlights the potential role of environmental exposures in disease development.
Researchers have discovered that cells rely on polyamines to store iron in a safe state, preventing destructive reactions. This finding has implications for cancer treatment and may offer new clues about early-onset Parkinson's disease.
Researchers analyzed EBRAINS-hosted brain data to determine that whole-brain activity patterns predict stimulation outcomes better than local recordings. Targeting specific sensorimotor and visual networks reduces response variability by up to 24%. This study highlights the value of open datasets for enabling large-scale analyses.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have identified structural changes that enable the LRRK2 protein to become overactive, a key step in Parkinson's disease progression. Understanding these changes is crucial for developing targeted therapies to slow or halt the disease.
Researchers found that exercise-induced molecular changes contribute to neuronal health, improving movement and quality of life in PD patients. Exercise types such as aerobic exercises, resistance training, balance training, and multimodal exercise were found to be helpful in reducing falls, disabilities, and improving brain function.
The first complete marmoset genome is now available, providing a high-quality reference for studying complex diseases like Alzheimer's. The new genome reveals variation in genes linked to Alzheimer's disease, as well as immune system genes and previously un-catalogued ribosomal DNA genes.
Researchers used real human brain tissue samples to test the underlying mechanisms of deep brain stimulation. They found that brain cells became more synchronized in communicating, similar to memory formation, while altering gene expression across different types of brain cells.
A new USC study uses AI to generate detailed maps of brain aging, revealing distinct patterns of neurodegeneration in specific regions. The approach sheds light on how local brain age correlates with changes in cognitive function across the lifespan.
A soft, wearable fingertip patch continuously monitors levodopa levels in patients' sweat, comparable to standard laboratory blood tests. This technology enables precise customization of daily medication schedules for patients at home, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
Researchers found that bee venom can improve motor function and cognitive decline in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease when used alongside conventional therapy. The study suggests promising benefits for developing adjunct therapies to improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers identify a specialized lymphatic network in the brain that enables cerebrospinal fluid drainage, which declines with age but can be restored through intranasal VEGF-C delivery. This discovery provides new insights into brain waste clearance and its link to neurodegenerative disorders.
A Bar-Ilan University study finds that patients with chronic illnesses often feel compelled to become experts in their condition due to inadequate healthcare systems. This phenomenon is referred to as 'forced agency,' where patients must acquire and evaluate medical knowledge without formal training, leading to an 'epistemic burden.'
Long-term exposure to road traffic noise was associated with a higher risk of Parkinson's disease, according to the study. Having a quiet facade mitigated this association, suggesting that reducing noise levels may be a viable strategy for preventing or managing the condition.
Researchers analyzed genetic data from almost 100,000 people across eleven world regions, identifying regional differences in gene variants GBA1 and LRRK2. This study is crucial for globally equitable diagnostics and therapies as it highlights the need to consider ancestry when diagnosing Parkinson's disease.
Researchers at Kyoto University discovered an RNA aptamer, 1R6, that targets the disordered regions of alpha-synuclein protein, inhibiting its aggregation and promoting disassembly of pre-existing aggregates. This finding offers a new therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson's disease.
Researchers have developed a new drug candidate, SB-0110, that boosts L-dopa's benefits while reducing dyskinetic side effects in animal models of Parkinson’s disease. The compound preserves the gene-activity patterns tied to L-dopa’s benefits while counteracting biological changes associated with dyskinesia.
A University of Houston chemist is uncovering how copper imbalances in neurons contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS. The new imaging technique provides a closer look at individual protein behaviors inside living cells, giving researchers insight into the cellular pathways that fail.
This study found that SNCA genetic variants are associated with MSA, and specific α-synuclein transcript levels are altered in MSA patients. The results suggest the importance of analyzing different SNCA transcript variants for biomarker research and understanding MSA pathology.
A landmark study has shown that transplanting stem-cell derived dopamine progenitor cells into the brain is feasible and safe. Eight patients received the transplanted cell product, with no serious side effects observed during the first year of follow-up.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found two air pollutants associated with an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) may interact with genetic susceptibility, leading to oxidative stress and neuroinflammation.
Research found that Parkinson's disease triggers shared 'stress responses' but also differs between men and women at the cellular level, particularly in how glial cells manage energy and protect nerve connections. This discovery may lead to more personalized treatments for patients.
A new study reveals IL-6 plays a crucial role in regulating neuroinflammation and protecting the nigrostriatal pathway in Parkinson's disease. The research found that restoring IL-6 levels can reverse aggravated pathology and partially ameliorate motor dysfunction in mice.
Researchers have identified a promising drug to treat neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's disease and traumatic brain injury. The study found that inhibition of an enzyme called 15-PGDH was potently neuroprotective by restraining the production of reactive oxygen species that damage the brain.
Researchers propose a theoretical framework linking rubidium ion metabolic dysregulation to Parkinson's disease, highlighting the role of ionic homeostasis imbalance in neurodegeneration. Rubidium may serve as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for early intervention.
Researchers found that patients with Parkinson's disease showing little to no Lewy bodies despite long-standing, clinically advanced disease. The study provides new insight into the relationship between clinical symptoms and neuropathological progression.
A new study by Texas A&M University researchers uses a non-toxic virus to induce Parkinson's-like brain damage and movement problems in animal models. The breakthrough model confirms that viral infections can trigger Parkinson's disease, paving the way for future studies on early warning signs and biological markers.
Research presented at the European Academy of Neurology Congress 2026 found that women with Parkinson's disease had significantly greater amyloid plaque burden and neuritic plaque density compared to men. The study suggests that women may be more susceptible to Alzheimer's-related changes in the brain.
Salk Institute researchers discovered chronoferroptosis, a chronic stress pathway in cells that causes neurons to become less resilient over time and more susceptible to neurodegeneration. Iron accumulation was found to lower the cells' defenses, making them more vulnerable to stressors.
Researchers study blind Mexican cavefish to understand how evolution rewires the brain and shapes behavior. They found that cavefish become more active in light, a response believed to help them avoid predators.
A new research project will study the effect of immune cell aging on Parkinson's disease risk and progression. The team aims to identify individuals at greater risk for Parkinson's disease and develop targeted treatments.
Researchers developed a new approach to deep brain stimulation that adapts to real-time patient activity, improving walking and mobility. This therapy adjusts stimulation dynamically based on the patient's ongoing locomotor activity, helping patients move more naturally.
Researchers created a personalized adaptive DBS system that detects neural signals associated with each step and adjusts stimulation in real time, improving gait symmetry and reducing falls. The study demonstrates the potential for brain stimulation to adapt to behavior itself, opening doors to future therapies.
Research finds different underlying factors driving growth in people living with Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and motor neuron disease. Improvements in treatment and care contribute to increased life expectancy for MS and MND patients.
Researchers found that pramipexole, a Parkinson's disease medication, improved symptoms of anhedonia in patients with treatment-resistant depression. The therapy was associated with positive effects on the brain's reward system and increased physical activity.
A new anti-inflammatory molecule has shown promising results in protecting neurons and delaying disease progression in mice with Parkinson's disease. The study, published in Neuropharmacology, found that the Ac2-26 peptide mitigated neuroinflammation and protected against cell death.
A study analyzing French and Swedish national health databases reveals a rise in Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and motor neuron diseases' prevalence worldwide. Improved life expectancy and therapies contribute to the increase in multiple sclerosis cases, while population aging is the primary driver of ALS rising incidence.
A medical school team has been awarded a $6 million grant to develop gene-replacement preclinical models of Parkinson's disease. The goal is to better understand the disease and support early-stage therapeutic research by identifying critical pathogenic mechanisms.