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

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…

Fundraising walks aim to support Parkinson’s research, advocacy

U.K.-based charity Cure Parkinson’s is marking its 20th anniversary by inviting supporters to take on walking challenges to raise money for Parkinson’s disease research and advocacy. “Our aim is to cure Parkinson’s and the only way we will do this is through the help of all our incredible supporters,” Helen…

Golf course pesticides may increase risk of Parkinson’s: Study

Living within three miles of a golf course may increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, possibly due to pesticide exposure, a study reported. The risk decreased with distance, the researchers found. Areas with water systems vulnerable to pesticide pollution from golf courses had a higher prevalence of Parkinson’s,…