Marisa Wexler, MS, senior science writer —

Marisa holds a Master of Science in cellular and molecular pathology from the University of Pittsburgh, where she studied novel genetic drivers of ovarian cancer. Her areas of expertise include cancer biology, immunology, and genetics, and she has worked as a science writing and communications intern for the Genetics Society of America.

Articles by Marisa Wexler

Cannabinoid-based therapy tested in preclinical study

Gb Sciences has completed a study testing its experimental cannabinoid-based therapy for Parkinson’s disease in rodents. The study, which was conducted at the University of Lethbridge, in Canada, tested a range of doses of the investigational therapy, establishing how long it takes each dose to have an effect…

Study explores factors that shape patients’ quality of life

People with Parkinson’s disease tend to have different coping strategies depending on factors such as age, gender, and education, a new study shows. Findings suggest that differences in demographic and clinical factors, but not differences in coping strategies, are the main factors that determine patients’ quality of life, according…

Sensors may allow at-home measuring of levodopa levels

Researchers have created a system that could be developed to allow at-home measuring of levodopa levels in people with Parkinson’s disease. The system was described in the study “Smartphone-based detection of levodopa in human sweat using 3D printed sensors,” published in Analytica Chimica Acta.

Smoking, aspirin may worsen some Parkinson’s symptoms

People with Parkinson’s who smoke cigarettes or use aspirin tend to report more problems with certain disease symptoms, according to a new study. The study, however, did not find notable associations between drinking coffee and Parkinson’s symptom severity. “This study comprehensively assesses the effect of smoking, coffee drinking, and aspirin…

Brazilian dance may be therapeutic, Parkinson’s study shows

Programs focusing on traditional forms of Brazilian dance may help to improve life quality and ease motor symptoms for people with Parkinson’s disease, a new study reports. “The findings of this study suggest that Brazilian dance practice is capable of improving the perception of some aspects of quality of life…

Oral films may be easier way to deliver pramipexole

Researchers have created a novel formulation of pramipexole — the active agent in Mirapex — that can be administered via a film placed on the inside of the cheek. The new formulation may make treatment easier for people with Parkinson’s disease who have trouble swallowing, scientists said in…