Articles tagged with Parkinsons Disease
Researchers aim to identify a gene on chromosome two linked to Parkinson's disease in families with multiple affected members. The study, called PROGENI, will enroll an additional 300 sibling pairs to investigate genetic risk factors for the neurodegenerative disease.
Researchers at UVA Health System have developed a cellular model of Parkinson's disease that can be used to study the disease's pathological features and test potential treatments. This model replicates the characteristic Lewy bodies found in brain tissue from patients with advanced Parkinson's disease.
A clinical trial found that low-dose clozapine can reduce levodopa-induced dyskinesias (LIDs) in people with severe Parkinson's disease by around 50 percent. The study suggests that clozapine may mitigate the transmission of toxically high levels of levodopa, thereby reducing its potency and lessening the severity and duration of LIDs.
Researchers developed a system using a tri-axial accelerometer and fractal analysis to study Parkinson's patients' walking patterns. The study reveals the complexity of body motion in both healthy elderly subjects and Parkinson's disease patients, with the latter exhibiting higher fractal measures indicating more complex symptoms.
A yeast model study has identified a key link between alpha-synuclein protein overexpression and Parkinson's disease, shedding light on the protein's role in neurodegeneration. The research found that doubling the expression of alpha-synuclein gene in yeast cells led to toxic inclusion bodies causing cell death and neurodegeneration.
Researchers used baker's yeast to model Parkinson's disease, showing how a small amount of alpha-synuclein protein can cause deadly clusters. The study may lead to improved quality-control mechanisms in cells that normally dispose of misfolded proteins.
A recent Neurology journal study has identified levodopa addiction in non-parkinsonian patients, suggesting the potential for addiction to this common Parkinson's disease treatment. Additionally, researchers have discovered RNA gene slicing mutations in McArdle patients, revealing new insights into neuromuscular diseases.
Researchers found that patients with Parkinson's disease performed better when their stimulators were turned off in tasks requiring spatial memory and inhibitory control. The study suggests that adjusting stimulation levels may be possible to minimize cognitive impairment while maintaining motor benefits.
Several commonly used pesticides are toxic to mitochondria in laboratory experiments, causing cellular damage that may contribute to diseases such as Parkinson's. The study found pyridaben to be the most potent toxic compound, followed by rotenone and fenpyroximate.
Researchers discovered a major new finding on the genetics of Parkinson's disease, focusing on the activity of alpha synuclein. The study found that an abnormal triplication of genes on chromosome 4 leads to excessive protein buildup, causing Parkinson's symptoms.
A study found that nearly 50% of Parkinson's patients on levodopa therapy experience 'wearing off' within one to two years, causing symptoms to re-emerge before the next dose. This phenomenon is associated with motor and non-motor symptoms, as well as autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
Researchers have discovered that smaller protein structures called protofibrils are more toxic to cells than mature fibrils in type II diabetes and other age-related diseases. The study suggests that targeting earlier stages of protofibril formation may be a more effective approach to developing treatments.
Researchers identified a single gene, glutathione S-transferase omega-1 (GSTO1), as a key factor influencing the age of onset for both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The study used genomic convergence to narrow down the genome region associated with age at onset, providing potential new targets for treatment.
Researchers found that relatives of people with tremor-dominant Parkinson's disease and those with postural instability gait disorder are more likely to experience action tremor. The study provides insight into the genetic influence of Parkinson's disease.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University and the University of Michigan have identified a gene defect behind a devastating muscle-wasting disease. The study found that a mutation in the Omi/HtrA2 protein causes neuronal cell death by impairing mitochondrial function.
A long-term follow-up study found that deep brain stimulation on the subthalamic nucleus improved motor scores by an average of 48% and reduced medication requirements. Younger patients with advanced Parkinson's Disease experienced sustained improvement in motor function for up to two years.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have successfully differentiated stem cells into genetically matched dopamine neurons, mimicking normal brain cell development. The breakthrough could lead to new treatments for Parkinson's-like disease in humans.
The STEPS study evaluates the safety and efficacy of Spheramine, a cell therapy that produces levodopa to enhance dopamine production in the brain. The study aims to provide a new method for Parkinson's patients to achieve continuous control of motor function.
A cheap and easy way to treat Parkinson disease involves infusing the ketone body D-beta-HB, which restores mitochondrial respiration and protects against neurodegeneration. This novel therapy supports a critical role for mitochondrial defect in Parkinson disease and offers new hope for treatment.
Silverman's research focuses on inhibiting an enzyme that produces nitric oxide, a compound linked to high blood pressure, stroke, and neurological diseases. His work aims to block the overproduction of nitric oxide in the brain without affecting its normal function.
A new study finds that istradefylline, an adenosine A2A receptor antagonist, improves motor function in Parkinson's disease patients with reduced dyskinesias. The medication reduces the time patients experience tremors, slowness, and stiffness by up to 1.7 hours per day
A study of 1,884 Parkinson's patients found that nine developed pathological gambling, with most taking high doses of dopamine agonists. The condition was often linked to financial problems and could be controlled with treatment changes.
Researchers are exploring neural transplantation as a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease, despite initial disappointing results from clinical trials. Further studies aim to improve the effectiveness of transplants and address concerns about side effects such as dyskinesias.
A study of 250 newly diagnosed patients and 388 healthy individuals found that those with high iron intake were 1.7 times more likely to have Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that eating foods rich in iron and manganese may help prevent the disease.
Researchers found that head injury significantly increases risk of developing Parkinson's disease, with severe injuries linked to a 20-year delay in symptoms. The study suggests that mild head injuries may not be associated with an increased risk, but more research is needed to understand the link.
Researchers found high levels of COX-2 in dopamine neurons of Parkinson's patients, leading to cell death. Inhibiting the enzyme with a COX-2 inhibitor increased surviving neurons by up to 88%. The study suggests COX-2 inhibitors may slow disease progression and is being tested in new trials.
Two new studies presented at the American Academy of Neurology meeting found that ARICEPT treatment improved cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and reduced behavioral symptoms in those with Parkinson's-related dementia. These findings provide encouraging news for millions of Americans affected by MCI.
The study found a specific genetic risk factor, the J haplogroup, to be protective against Parkinson's disease, particularly in white women. The researchers also discovered that this variant is more common in people with lower incidences of the disease.
A longitudinal study found that high fruit and fruit drink consumption predicted an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. However, vitamin C intake was not associated with the risk. The study suggests further research into food-borne toxins may help understand the etiology and prevention of the disease.
A two-year follow-up study shows participants with advanced PD experienced improvements in tremor, stiffness, slow movement, and balance. The new cell therapy, Spheramine, provided a source of increased dopamine production, maintaining initial gains up to 24 months post-treatment.
A new study suggests that early levodopa treatment may slow the rate of progression in Parkinson's disease. Levodopa treatment showed improved outcomes in patients with early Parkinson's disease compared to placebo.
A study involving 34 Parkinson's patients found that the implant improved their quality of life by an average of 22 percent, with significant improvements in mobility and motor functioning. Patients reported substantial improvements in daily activities such as dressing and preparing meals.
A new study reports remarkable improvements in motor skills and dopamine storage in five Parkinson's patients. The treatment, which administered GDNF directly into the brain, showed a 39% improvement in motor skills and 61% improvement in daily living activities.
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery by detecting Parkinson's symptoms on brain scans of living patients. The study, led by Dr. Robert Y. Moore, found positive evidence of nerve cell degeneration in areas controlling attention and wakefulness using PET scans.
Researchers found low-dose exposure to permethrin triggered a process with early onset and persistent effects, while high-level exposures had delayed effects. The study suggests that genetic predisposition may increase the risk of damage from pesticide exposure.
The study found that complex interactions between common gene variants contribute to Parkinson's disease risk in women. Environmental exposures are thought to play a greater role in men, with estrogen reducing the risk of developing the disease in women.
Researchers have discovered a way to control 'badly' behaving neurons in Parkinson's disease, potentially easing symptoms and progression. By blocking potassium channels or eliminating the subunit using gene therapy, high-frequency spiking can be stopped, preserving normal neuronal activity.
Researchers found a significant association between moderate caffeine consumption and reduced risk of Parkinson's disease in postmenopausal women who don't use hormone replacement therapy. However, high caffeine intake increased the risk of PD in women using HRT, suggesting an estrogen-caffeine interaction
The American Academy of Neurology has launched a new online section providing patients and caregivers with practical health care information on various neurological conditions. The Patient Page section aims to give the public access to accurate and reliable information through articles written by practicing neurologists.
A study published in Archives of Neurology found that Parkinson's patients treated with levodopa have higher levels of homocysteine, a risk factor for heart disease and dementia. The study suggests that monitoring homocysteine levels may be necessary for patients at risk of heart disease.
Bradford Parkinson, a pioneer of GPS technology, has been awarded the 2003 Charles Stark Draper Prize for his significant contributions to the development of the original GPS system architecture. He is also recognized for his work on improving GPS accuracy and its applications in various fields.
The study reveals that protein components in the post-synaptic density (PSD) move together in response to neural activity, with a significant percentage undergoing up-and-down regulation. The findings also suggest a high rate of PSD remodeling, with neurons replacing its content multiple times a day.
Researchers discovered that a mutated gene associated with early onset dystonia helps manage protein folding and is normally used as a quality control mechanism. TorsinA's failure to function correctly may lead to protein aggregation, causing neuron malfunction, which is linked to various movement disorders.
A new mouse genetic model exhibits a non-lethal form of spongiform brain disease, characterized by fluid-filled vacuoles and tissue degeneration. The mice lack the same motor coordination problems as affected cattle and are not contagious.
Dr. Ted Fon, a renowned Parkinson's Disease researcher, has been awarded a significant grant by the Michael J. Fox Foundation to investigate the role of protein degradation in the disease. The grant aims to enhance understanding of parkin function and its potential impact on dopamine nerve cell death.
Researchers have found a new Parkinson's drug to be effective in improving symptoms, with participants receiving 1mg of Rasagiline showing significant improvements compared to those on 2mg. The study calls for further research to evaluate the long-term effects of Rasagiline on the progression of the disease.
A new testing method for Huntington's disease (HSS) has been discovered by researchers at Oregon Health & Science University and UCSF. The test uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify the 'eye of the tiger sign' in patients with PANK2 mutations, a gene linked to HSS and Parkinson's disease.
A study of Parkinson's patients found that those with advanced disease are at greater risk for motor vehicle collisions due to motor and cognitive dysfunction. The study also revealed no correlation between self-reported moving violations and total collisions on the simulator.
New research from University of Minnesota presents promising findings on unrelated donor transplants, including a study showing improved survival rates and quality of life for leukemia/lymphoma patients. Another study explores the use of bone marrow-derived stem cells to treat Parkinson's disease.
A new class of drugs may prevent neurodegenerative disorders by fortifying neurons before disease onset. Geldanamycin, a natural antibiotic, boosts molecular chaperone activity, protecting against alpha-synuclein toxicity in Parkinson's disease.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have successfully converted human neural stem cells into dopamine-making neurons in a laboratory setting. Approximately 25% of the stem cells were able to produce the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase, which is necessary for dopamine production. The breakthrough could potentially lead to the develop...
Researchers have found that high-frequency stimulation of the brain can alleviate obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease. Two patients who underwent electrode implantation showed significant improvement in compulsive behaviors, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for severe OCD.
A large cohort study found that high dietary vitamin E intake was associated with a significantly lower risk of developing Parkinson's disease. However, the use of vitamin E or C supplements and multivitamins showed no protective effect on Parkinson's risk. The results suggest that other lifestyle factors may also play a role in reduci...
A landmark study shows that high doses of coenzyme Q10 can slow the progression of Parkinson's disease, measured by movement difficulty or disability. The study found significant reductions in motor disabilities, mental function, and mood among participants taking the nutrient.
A national clinical trial with 80 Parkinson's patients showed that high-dose coenzyme Q10 slowed functional decline by 44%, particularly in everyday activities. The therapy needs to be tested in a larger trial before it can be recommended.
A phase II study found that coenzyme Q10 can slow the rate of functional decline in Parkinson's disease by improving mitochondrial function and energy-producing reactions. The study showed that higher doses of coenzyme Q10, up to 1,200 mg/day, were safe and more effective than lower doses.
Researchers have developed a new surgical procedure for Parkinson's disease, bilateral subthalamotomy, which has shown promising results in improving motor symptoms and activities of daily living. After two years of follow-up, patients exhibited approximately 50% improvement in motor symptoms and significant reduction in medication doses.
A new study using gene therapy has shown promise in treating Parkinson's disease by 'resetting' overactive brain cells. The therapy may arrest or delay disease progression, offering a safer and more powerful alternative to current treatments.
Researchers successfully used gene therapy to change the brain's circuitry in rats with Parkinson's disease, producing nearly 70% fewer symptoms. The treatment involves altering glutamate and GABA signaling pathways to protect dopamine neurons from deterioration.
A Rutgers University researcher found that dopamine loss causes brain connections to reorganize, leading to impaired motor control. The study suggests that this permanent change may explain why current treatments fail to restore complex movements in Parkinson's disease patients.