Articles tagged with Parkinsons Disease
Researchers used an engineered virus to deliver a glowing protein into newborn brain cells in an animal model of Parkinson's disease, revealing most cells are glial and do not form neurons. Further gene delivery experiments showed no effect on neuron formation but increased the number of oligodendrocytes supporting neurons.
A new brain imaging study reveals that there are optimal times for multitasking, allowing individuals to be more efficient. The research found that certain brain regions show higher activity when people are performing well under multiple tasks.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have found that deep brain stimulation can halt the progression of dopamine-cell loss in animal models. The study suggests that stimulating neurons with electrodes boosts the amount of BDNF, a protein that promotes neuronal growth.
A team of University of Cincinnati researchers is studying the relationship between depression and Parkinson's disease to gain insight into possible treatments. In pilot models, they found that stress-induced depression exacerbates problems with movement and causes brain cells to die faster.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have identified a baker's yeast protein, Hsp104, that can reverse protein aggregation in animal models of Parkinson's disease. This breakthrough finding holds promise for developing new treatments for the condition.
A study published in JCI Journals suggests that a yeast protein called Hsp104 may hold the key to treating Parkinson's disease. The protein was found to inhibit alpha-synuclein aggregation, which is thought to contribute to PD pathology.
Researchers found that dopamine strengthens the 'go' circuit and weakens the 'stop' circuit in the brain, leading to compulsive behavior and addictive tendencies. The study also shows how Parkinson's patients' reduced dopamine levels lead to frozen motor skills.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation has awarded $1.1 million for 15 high-risk, high-reward research projects to explore new approaches to treating Parkinson's disease using gene silencing techniques and induced pluripotent stem cell technology. The funding aims to develop transformative treatments and a cure for PD.
A team of scientists found that genes controlling heme synthesis in red blood cells also control a gene and protein causing Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that targeting the GATA-1 and GATA-2 proteins may lead to new treatments for the neurological disorder.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation has awarded $2.4 million to nine research teams to validate potential therapeutic targets for Parkinson's disease. The funding aims to accumulate evidence and reduce the risk of investment for industry, ultimately accelerating PD drug development.
Jülich scientists have discovered the mechanism behind Parkinsonian tremor and developed a new deep brain pacemaker to disrupt it. The device influences disturbed neurons in the core region of the brain, causing irregular rhythms that break down diseased modes.
The Parkinson's Disease Foundation has awarded $950,000 in seed grants to 19 researchers, including Matthew Goldberg and Sandra M. Lynch, to explore new treatments for Parkinson's disease. The funding will support the development of animal models and antibody-based therapies.
Researchers at the University of Alberta found that sprinters closest to the starter pistol had significantly lower reaction times than those farther away. The study suggests that procedures used in Olympic sprint events may give runners closer to the starter an advantage.
Researchers have found that adult stem cells from Parkinson's patients' noses can differentiate into dopamine-producing brain cells when transplanted into the brain of a rat. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating the debilitating symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
A Binghamton University researcher will receive a $1.33 million NIH grant to study the side effects of Parkinson's disease treatment, with a focus on reducing dyskinesia and suppressing abnormal motor movements. The research aims to develop new treatments that can address these issues and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have discovered two gatekeeper proteins, Rpn13 and an ubiquitin receptor, on the proteasome. This finding has significant implications for cancer research, as it may lead to the development of targeted drugs that can block protein breakdown and prevent tumor cell proliferation.
Researchers found that activating the c-Jun gene in cultured neurons with Schwann cells promotes dedifferentiation and speeds nerve healing. The study suggests a new potential target for understanding and treating diseases like Charcot-Marie Tooth disease and Guillain-Barre syndrome.
A study of seven patients with Parkinson's disease found that re-implanting electrodes to correct placement can improve symptoms and reduce medication doses for those who had poor results after initial implantation. The procedure led to significant improvements in motor function scores and reduced levodopa medication doses.
The American Society for Neural Therapy and Repair (ASNTR) has awarded neuroscientist Paul M. Carvey for his groundbreaking research on Parkinson's Disease, while recognizing patient advocate Joan Samuelson for her tireless advocacy efforts.
A novel cell therapy using retinal pigment epithelial cells attached to gelatin bead microcarriers has shown promising results in patients with moderate to advanced Parkinson's disease. The therapy, Spheramine, has been well-tolerated and has improved symptoms such as tremor, rigidity, and balance issues for several years.
Two studies from the University at Buffalo use advanced MRI technologies to identify brain regions linked to Parkinson's disease. The research found that white matter hyperintensities are associated with lower scores on mental tests, suggesting a possible explanation for cognitive impairment in PD.
A new study by University of Minnesota researchers identifies unit burst generators in the spinal cord that control rhythmic movements such as walking. The discovery may help lead to treatments for Parkinson's disease and spinal cord injuries.
Recent research has identified seven LRRK2 gene mutations associated with Parkinson's disease, including a rare mutation that doubles the risk in ethnic Chinese. The findings suggest that genetic influences passed down through generations can significantly increase susceptibility to the disease.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation has awarded $5.6 million for a Phase 2 clinical trial investigating the potential of inosine to slow or stop Parkinson's disease progression. The study will determine the safety of using inosine to raise urate levels and assess optimal dosage for therapeutic effect.
A study of 804 individuals with early Parkinson's disease found that those with higher blood urate levels were less likely to progress and required dopaminergic therapy. The association suggests that urate may protect dopamine-producing neurons, potentially leading to the development of new therapies.
Researchers found that high urate levels among recently diagnosed Parkinson's patients slowed disease progression during a two-year study period. Elevated urate levels have been linked to reduced risk of developing Parkinson's disease, and may offer new treatment strategies for the disorder.
A study by Medical College of Georgia found that occupational therapy using Nintendo Wii can slow disease progression, decrease medication needs, and increase function in Parkinson's patients. The therapy helps participants improve daily activities like dressing, walking, and fine motor skills.
Scientists have identified 'mother cells' that produce dopamine-producing neurons affected by Parkinson's disease. These radial glia-like cells could be used to grow replacement neurons in the lab, potentially leading to new treatments for the disease.
A recent study published in Nature Medicine found that fetal cells implanted in patients with Parkinson's disease can develop Lewy body pathology, a defining characteristic of the disease. The study suggests that cell replacement strategies for Parkinson's disease may not be effective in the long-term.
Researchers at Yale University have successfully created new neurons using uterine stem cells, which increased dopamine levels and partially corrected Parkinson's disease symptoms in mice. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of a potential human treatment.
A study of 42 amateur boxers found microhemorrhages in three cases, a potential precursor to Parkinson's disease and dementia. However, the differences were not statistically significant, leaving conclusive statements unclear. Further research on professional boxers is planned to assess intensive exposure to blows.
A family-based study found a significant association between pesticide use, particularly herbicides and insecticides, and an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The research team recruited 319 patients and over 200 relatives to analyze the relationship between pesticide exposure and Parkinson's disease development.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center have successfully used therapeutic cloning to treat Parkinson's disease in mice. The method involves generating customized dopamine neurons from the patient's own skin cells and transplanting them into the mouse, resulting in neurological improvement.
A genetic clue has been uncovered for Parkinson's disease, a progressive movement disorder affecting millions worldwide. GIGYF2 mutations have been found to be directly linked to the development of Parkinson's in people with a family history of the disease.
Scientists have identified genes and processes that may underlie the susceptibility to Parkinson's disease. The study found that the gene sir-2.1 has a significant effect on protein formation, which is thought to play a role in the aging process and the development of the disease.
Researchers found that impaired sense of smell can precede the development of Parkinson's disease (PD) in men by at least four years. Smell impairment was associated with an increased risk of PD, even after adjusting for other factors such as age and cognitive function.
Scripps Research will develop a compound to treat neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease using a classical pharmaceutical approach. The goal is to bring the potential treatment to human clinical studies, aiming to have a safe and efficacious compound with sufficient preclinical safety data.
A reliable blood test for Parkinson's disease could revolutionize care and research, according to a new study. The test uses a 'metabolomic profile' to identify unique changes in dozens of small molecules in serum that are linked to the disease.
Researchers discovered a protein imbalance in Parkinson's disease patients and found that adding a phosphate group can reduce toxicity. The study suggests alpha-synuclein protein plays a key role in brain cell communication and may be a potential target for therapy.
A new study by Buck Institute researchers finds that high levels of MAO-B enzyme in mice lead to Parkinson-like symptoms. The findings suggest that humans with high MAO-B levels may be at risk for the disease and could benefit from preventive treatment.
A study of 7,374 participants found that those taking calcium channel blockers for high blood pressure had a lower risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The medication was shown to cut the risk by 23% compared to non-users, but not other high blood pressure medications.
A new guideline from the American Academy of Neurology highlights individuals at risk of falling due to conditions like stroke, dementia, Parkinson's disease, and vision loss. Regular screening and preventive measures can help prevent fall-related injuries and deaths.
Researchers found that manipulating serotonin receptors can block L-DOPA-induced side effects in advanced Parkinson's disease. The discovery suggests a new approach for developing treatments for this disorder, which is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's.
Researchers developed MAPAS to predict protein contact surfaces, which can guide new treatments for devastating diseases. The tool uses supercomputers to analyze protein shapes and energy, revealing key details of membrane interactions.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation has awarded up to $3 million in funding to four industry teams as part of its Therapeutics Development Initiative, focusing on treatments targeting alpha-synuclein toxicity, chronic inflammation, trophic factors, and mitochondrial dysfunction. The grants aim to accelerate the development and delivery of tr...
A new Mayo Clinic study identified several gene variations that predict people at high risk for ALS and Parkinson's disease. The researchers found a high-risk prediction factor for ALS (2,000 times greater than average) and for Parkinson's disease (nearly 400 times greater than average).
A new study found trichloroethylene to be a risk factor for parkinsonism, a group of nervous disorders with symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease. The study showed that chronic exposure to TCE can lead to degenerative changes in the brain, including reduced mitochondrial function and dopamine neuron damage.
A study by Einstein researchers suggests that impaired autophagy may contribute to the development of Parkinson's disease. The team found that dopamine-altered alpha-synuclein molecules interfere with lysosomal digestion, leading to toxic compound accumulation and cell death.
Researchers found that green tea polyphenols protect dopamine neurons and inhibit the ROS-NO pathway, which contributes to cell death in Parkinson's disease. The study suggests green tea polyphenols may be developed into a safe and easily administrable drug for Parkinson's disease treatment.
A recent study by Mayo Clinic found that relatives of patients with Parkinson's disease are at increased risk for developing depression and anxiety disorders. The risk is particularly elevated in families where the patient develops Parkinson's before age 75.
Researchers at Université Laval discovered that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids protects the brain against Parkinson's disease. The study found that mice fed an omega-3 rich diet were immune to the toxic compound MPTP, which causes damage to dopamine-producing neurons.
A recent study using PET scans shows that an experimental gene therapy can normalize brain function in Parkinson's patients. The treatment was found to alter brain activity in a favorable way, primarily affecting motor networks.
Regular use of non-aspirin NSAIDs reduced Parkinson's disease risk by up to 60% compared to non-users. Women who regularly used aspirin also showed a 40% reduced risk, especially after two years of use.
Researchers at Saint Louis University School of Medicine discovered a key brain chemical that causes Parkinson’s disease. They found that dopamine itself is converted into DOPAL, which triggers the death of dopamine-producing cells and leads to Parkinson’s.
Researchers found that Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) actually speeds up decision-making in Parkinson's patients, contrary to expectations. The study suggests that DBS affects the brain's ability to deliberate on complicated decisions by interrupting the 'hold-your-horses' signal.
Research at The Parkinson's Institute and Clinical Center found that intermittent nicotine treatment reduces medication-induced dyskinesias in Parkinson's disease models. This could lead to more effective and long-term treatment options for patients suffering from the condition.
First-degree relatives of patients with Parkinson's disease are at increased risk of developing dementia and cognitive impairment, particularly those with younger age of onset. The study suggests shared familial susceptibility factors may be driving this association.
Researchers at ESRF and CNRS used chemical nano-imaging to visualize iron distribution in dopaminergic neurons. They found that iron is stored within dopamine vesicles, which helps explain the molecular mechanisms involved in Parkinson's disease.
Researchers analyzed genes of 278 people with Parkinson's disease and found a higher prevalence of mutations in the GBA gene among those diagnosed before age 50. The study suggests that Jewish ancestry may be an important risk factor for younger-onset Parkinson's disease due to the increased presence of GBA gene mutations in this group.
Researchers have created 'pro-chelators' that can selectively bind to potentially destructive forms of iron in the brain, reducing oxidative stress and cell damage associated with these diseases. The iron-binding agents are designed to target only harmful iron species, allowing benign forms to carry out vital functions.