Articles tagged with Parkinsons Disease
Researchers found that activating Nurr1, a class of proteins in the brain, protects dopamine neurons and improves motor control. The study suggests that existing anti-malaria drugs could be repurposed to treat Parkinson's disease.
The UK Parkinson's Excellence Network is a multi-disciplinary effort bringing together patients, healthcare professionals, and social care experts to develop patient-centered care. The network aims to improve treatment and raise awareness of the need for better care, with a focus on education and service development.
A study found that compounds in New Zealand blackcurrants increased mental performance indicators such as accuracy and attention, while also reducing the activity of monoamine oxidase enzymes. This may lead to potential benefits for brain health and managing symptoms of disorders like Parkinson's disease and depression.
Researchers found that patients who had undergone vagotomy were protected against developing Parkinson's disease, with a risk halved after 20 years. The study suggests that Parkinson's disease begins in the gut and spreads via the vagus nerve to the brain.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have developed a gene therapy that reduces production of brain protein α-synuclein, preventing Parkinson's disease progression in an animal study. The therapy targets mitochondria and α-synuclein interaction, showing promising results in protecting dopamine neurons.
Researchers will investigate mTOR's role in brain function and regulation using various techniques. Understanding its function in the striatum could lead to new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers discover that different shapes of alpha-synuclein aggregates cause distinct neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease and Multiple System Atrophy. The study suggests new possibilities for treating brain diseases with a drug that counteracts aggregate development.
Scientists have identified a new neural circuit in the brain that tracks movement speed and delivers this information to spatial memory systems. This discovery has important implications for understanding movement-related symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease and improving spatial memory.
Researchers found that older adults' cycling speed improved while completing cognitive tasks without sacrificing cognitive performance. The study suggests combining physical activity with mental tasks may encourage more vigorous exercise.
Researchers have discovered a novel biomarker that tracks Parkinson's progression in the brain, providing a new tool for diagnosis and treatment. The study uses MRI-based diffusion imaging to measure changes in brain tissue fluid levels, which can inform treatment decisions and identify promising new therapies.
A large study found that people with depression were 3.2 times more likely to develop Parkinson's disease within a year after diagnosis. The link between depression and Parkinson's disease remained even when adjusting for other conditions related to depression.
A large study found that people with depression are more likely to develop Parkinson's disease, with a threefold increased risk within the first year. The link between depression and Parkinson's disease holds true even after adjusting for other related conditions.
The American Comparative Literature Association honored Lois Parkinson Zamora for her pioneering studies on hemispheric American studies and modern Latin American literature. Her work has been recognized nationally, with numerous publications and awards, including the John and Rebecca Moores Distinguished Professorship.
A team of neuroscientists found that misfolded a-synuclein can activate microglia, leading to chronic inflammation. They also identified specific receptors on microglial cells that respond to the protein and tested drugs to reduce inflammation.
A recent study by Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research has made a significant breakthrough in understanding the molecular mechanisms behind Parkinson's disease. The researchers discovered that disruption of a developmental mechanism, Lmx1b, leads to the death of dopamine-producing neurons, resulting in the symptoms of PD.
Researchers have made significant progress in cell transplantation therapy, demonstrating improved outcomes for patients with complete spinal cord injury and potential treatments for Parkinson's disease. Studies also show that human pluripotent stem cells hold promise for treating the disease.
A new approach has reversed Parkinson's-like symptoms in rats by delivering dopamine via biodegradable nanoparticles that crossed the blood-brain barrier without side effects. This breakthrough could lead to a new treatment for human patients.
Researchers found that serum glucocorticoid kinase 1 (SGK1) protects brain cells by blocking pathways involved in neurodegeneration and alleviating mitochondrial dysfunction. Increasing SGK1 levels offers a potential therapeutic approach for Parkinson's disease, as naturally occurring levels are not sufficient to promote cell survival.
Researchers discovered that deep-brain stimulation (DBS) reduces excessive synchronization of brain activity in the motor cortex, a region governing body movements. This reduction leads to improved symptoms and facilitated movement in patients with Parkinson's disease.
A new study by McGill University researchers found that a 12-week tango course improved balance and functional mobility in 40 Parkinson's patients, while also showing modest benefits in cognitive functions. The dance style's social interaction and physical activity may have therapeutic value for PD patients.
Researchers developed a new approach to identify reliable blood biomarkers for Parkinson's disease, which may lead to early diagnosis and targeted treatments. The study found RNA signatures that correlate with the disease-causing mutations in the LRRK2 gene.
Researchers have developed a safe and effective therapeutic strategy for Parkinson's disease using mitomycin-treated embryonic stem cells. The treatment showed significant improvements in motor function and survival rate in mice, with no tumor formation detected.
Researchers found that inflammatory cells from the bloodstream play a key role in neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease. CD95L-bearing immune cells cause damage to neurons, and blocking this molecule can prevent neurodegeneration in mice. This suggests that early treatment with drugs targeting CD95L might mitigate Parkinson's symptoms.
Patients with Parkinson's disease experienced improved or eliminated preoperative pain after eight years following subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation. However, new musculoskeletal pain developed in 75% of patients during the follow-up period.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation is supporting research on a novel therapy for Parkinson's disease by Dr Bryce Vissel and Sandy Stayte at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research. The prototype drug targets kainate receptors to slow disease progression.
Scientists at OIST Graduate University found that cell groups in the neostriatum do not communicate with each other and are less interconnected. The discovery has implications for studying diseases like Parkinson's, which affects motor control.
New research confirms GDNF is not necessary for maintaining dopamine neurons, contradicting previous findings. The absence of GDNF in mice did not cause significant damage to the midbrain dopamine system or trigger motor disorders.
Researchers discovered a new pathway in the brain's striatum where several areas communicate to make spatial decisions, such as estimating where to swing a bat or finding a car. This knowledge may lead to improved treatments for Parkinson's disease by strengthening damaged pathways.
Scientists develop peptide that binds to misshapen α-synuclein protein, stopping toxic fibril formation and brain cell death. The research offers a potential new approach for slowing Parkinson's disease progression.
Researchers discovered a skin test that can detect abnormal proteins associated with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The study used skin biopsies to compare patients' protein levels, revealing seven times higher tau protein levels for those with both conditions.
A UBC study shows that Twitter is a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, with 25% of tweets about spinal cord injury coming from medical experts. The study also found that users discussing Parkinson's disease were more likely to share new research tools and methods.
Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism of neuronal death involved in neurodegenerative protein-misfolding diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The study found that the loss of NAD+ is the primary cause of neuronal demise, and restoring it can rescue neurons.
Global sea ice has been decreasing at an average annual rate of 13,500 square miles since 1979, with the Arctic losing more than it gains in Antarctica. The Arctic ice decrease has accelerated over time, leading to increased absorption of solar radiation and further heating.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that eltoprazine significantly reduced Parkinson's disease patients' dyskinesia while maintaining anti-Parkinsonian effects. The treatment was well-tolerated and shows promise as a new therapeutic principle for treating L-dopa-induced dyskinesia.
A recent study published in JAMA found that creatine monohydrate treatment did not improve clinical outcomes for patients with early and treated Parkinson disease. The study, which followed 1,741 participants for up to 8 years, suggests that creatine may not be a viable treatment option for slowing disease progression.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center developed a wearable sensor system to track gait, balance, and other movements in individuals with Parkinson's disease. The APDM Mobility Lab can effectively assess the severity of the disorder even when medications are used to reduce symptoms.
A new study by University of Cambridge researchers identified a critical threshold in alpha-synuclein protein levels that increases the chances of aggregation and neurodegeneration. The findings provide a mechanistic description of the initial molecular events leading to Parkinson's disease.
A new study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that patients with Parkinson's disease experience improved motor skills when receiving an 'expensive' drug, even if it's just a placebo. The study suggests that harnessing the placebo response could enhance treatment benefits and reduce dosage needs.
Researchers found that xanthohumol, a compound in hops, can protect neuronal cells from oxidative damage, potentially slowing the development of brain disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The study suggests xanthohumol could be a promising candidate for fighting neurodegenerative conditions.
A new study published in Neurology found that low-frequency deep brain stimulation at 60Hz significantly improves swallowing dysfunction and freezing of gait in Parkinson's patients. This treatment is more effective than standard high-frequency DBS at alleviating these symptoms, which can lead to disability and mortality.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have identified drug candidates targeting biological pathways involved in brain cell destruction in Parkinson's disease. The new compounds selectively inhibit JNK kinases, which play a central role in the disease, and show promise as potential therapeutics.
Laurie Sanders, a Pitt assistant professor of neurology, will receive the William N. & Bernice E. Bumpus Foundation Innovation Award. The award supports her research on unrepaired mtDNA damage and its role in Parkinson's disease development.
Researchers discovered a protein in E. coli that inhibits the accumulation of toxic amyloids, a key feature of Parkinson's disease. The finding could lead to a new therapeutic approach for treating Parkinson's.
Researchers at UCSD have identified a specific region of the alpha-synuclein protein where mutations can lead to the creation of ring oligomers, causing cell death. This discovery could lead to the development of compounds that target this region to prevent or treat Parkinson's disease.
Researchers at University of Gothenburg tested portable stimulator on 10 Swedish Parkinson's patients, showing improved balance and combined symptoms. The active noise stimulation improved the patients' balance and symptoms when unmedicated, and may lead to new treatment in the next five years.
A study published in Neurology found that exercise programs can reduce falls and improve mobility in people with Parkinson's disease, particularly those with less severe symptoms. Participants who exercised showed a 70% reduction in falls and better overall mood and quality of life compared to those who did not participate.
Researchers found that methamphetamine users are three times more likely to develop Parkinson's disease than non-users, with women facing nearly five times the risk. The study suggests long-term effects of meth use may manifest years after initial use, leading to increased incidence in women.
Parkinson's patients, medics, and carers identified top 10 research priorities for managing the condition. The list includes balancing treatments for falls and improving sleep quality, as well as addressing stress, anxiety, and dyskinesias.
Researchers found a link between gut microbiota and Parkinson's disease, with patients having lower levels of Prevotellaceae bacteria and higher levels of Enterobacteriaceae family in their intestines. The study suggests that intestinal dysfunction may be part of the pathology and potentially related to the progression of the disease.
Researchers at IRCM have discovered a mechanism that regulates dopamine levels in the brain, which could lead to new treatments for Parkinson's disease. The Rgs6 gene plays a crucial role in preventing excessive dopaminergic signalling and cellular stress.
Researchers found no evidence of asymptomatic myocardial dysfunction or deterioration of systolic function in patients taking pramipexole and ropinirole. This suggests that non-ergot derived dopamine agonists may be safe for the heart, contradicting previous concerns about an increased risk of heart failure.
Drs. Alim Louis Benabid and Mahlon DeLong developed deep brain stimulation (DBS) for treating Parkinson's disease, improving motor function and quality of life for thousands of patients. Their groundbreaking research has led to the use of DBS in other disorders, benefiting over 110,000 patients worldwide.
A new study found that Parkinson's patients' brain activity improves equally in response to real medication and placebo treatment, highlighting the power of expectations to drive changes in the brain. The research suggests that dopamine-rich areas in the brain are activated when patients believe they have received medication, offering ...
Parkinson's patients experience changes in body weight due to non-motor disorders, worsening their quality of life. Research highlights the role of depression, cognitive impairment, sensory disturbances, and motivation towards food consumption in altering eating habits.
A new study published in Brain: A Journal of Neurology found that a medium amount of physical activity can lower the risk of Parkinson's disease. Participants who spent more than six hours per week on household and commuting activities had a 43% lower risk of developing the disease.
Researchers found that Parkin triggers 'cellular suicide' in damaged nerve cells, depending on the degree of damage, and may help weed out faulty neurons. This discovery could lead to a new understanding of how Parkinson's disease arises.
Researchers created a cellular model of Parkinson's disease using human stem cells from identical twins with the disease. The study found that dopamine-producing neurons had reduced activity and higher levels of α-synuclein protein, which can be targeted for therapy.
Transplantation of stem-cell-derived dopamine neurons restores motor function in a rat model of Parkinson's disease, suggesting a viable alternative to existing treatments. The therapy demonstrates efficacy and potency similar to fetal neurons, paving the way for human clinical trials.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that a high-fat diet can postpone signs of brain aging in mice with a defective DNA repair system. This could lead to new treatment possibilities for children with Cockayne syndrome and patients with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Researchers have discovered that inhibiting a particular mitochondrial fission protein could reverse Parkinson's Disease symptoms by reducing cell death and dopamine release deficits. This study offers exciting potential for an effective treatment and paves the way for future studies in this field.