Lila Levinson, PhD,  Science Writer—

Lila is a Science Writer at BioNews. She completed her PhD in neuroscience at the University of Washington, where she studied how the natural flexibility of the human brain can be used to promote recovery after injury. Previously, she has written about science for The Dallas Morning News and the University of Washington Computational Neuroscience Center. She enjoys exploring the Pacific Northwest and spending time with her cat, Fibonacci.

Articles by Lila Levinson, PhD

Cough medicine may help some with Parkinson’s dementia: Trial

Ambroxol, a common cough medicine, may help stabilize neuropsychiatric symptoms in Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD) and shows cognitive promise for patients with mutations in the GBA1 gene, according to results from a Phase 2 clinical trial. While ambroxol is widely used in Europe to treat respiratory conditions, it’s not approved…

Saliva DNA may aid in Parkinson’s diagnosis, risk assessment

Genetic analysis of saliva may offer a noninvasive way to assess the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, according to a saliva-based DNA study led by researchers at the University of the Basque Country (EHU) in Spain. The scientists found that molecular markers in saliva can reflect whole-body disease processes,…

Bezisterim clinical trial uses hybrid design to promote accessibility

BioVie’s ongoing SUNRISE-PD clinical trial of bezisterim in early Parkinson’s disease uses a hybrid, decentralized approach to center patient experience and promote accessibility, according to the company. Parkinson’s disease patients often face barriers to accessing specialized care and participating in clinical trials due to delayed diagnosis, limited mobility, and…

Ambio ibogaine program treats Parkinson’s, other diseases

A new clinical program will use ibogaine, a naturally occurring psychedelic, to treat neurodegenerative conditions including Parkinson’s disease. Ambio Life Sciences, which hosts other ibogaine programming and participates in scientific research about the drug, soft-launched the program in February. It is the first of its kind in the…

Patients in pilot study see promise in equine-assisted therapy

Parkinson’s disease patients in a pilot study testing the effects of equine-associated therapy report that they enjoy working with horses, while researchers say they hope results from the program will provide evidence of its benefits. “We hope to show there is effectiveness in this type of treatment to apply…

Physical challenges, stigma complicate assistive device use

Barriers including physical difficulties and social stigma may affect how people with Parkinson’s disease use assistive devices meant to help facilitate movement and prevent falls, a study found. Parkinson’s patients said physicians prescribing assistive devices helped them overcome stigma or negative associations. Other possible interventions, including education initiatives and…