Loss or inactivation of a single gene copy of LRRK1 or LRRK2 — LRRK mutations being a common genetic cause of Parkinson’s disease — neither increases the risk nor protects against the disease, a new study showed. These findings also support the use of kinase inhibitors targeting mutant LRRK2 as a…
Cantabio Pharmaceuticals’ small molecule therapeutic candidate was able to protect dopamine-producing brain cells from death and prevent the loss of dopamine in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease, according to preclinical data. The compound targets DJ-1, a protein whose loss is associated with the onset of several diseases, including…
Researchers have developed a new way to make miniature 3D versions of the brain by using human stem cells. These new “mini-brains” will allow scientists to observe brain development, test promising new therapies, and study neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s disease. Findings were published in the study, “Induction of…
Physical exercise given in addition to standard treatment can improve overall quality of life in Parkinson’s patients, helping to ease physical limitations and allowing for greater engagement in daily activities, a review study suggests. The review, “The Effect of Physical Activity in Parkinson’s Disease: A Mini-Review,” was published in…
An investigational compound called ITI-214, which is being investigated in clinical trials for Parkinson’s disease, may also be effective in strengthening the heart, according to an animal study recently published in the journal Circulation. ITI-214, being developed by Intra-Cellular Therapies, is a potent and selective inhibitor of an enzyme known…
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) endorsed an imaging test that can help in identifying Parkinson’ patients with early stage disease but likely to progress quickly — people who might be best suited to taking part in clinical trials. Development of this clinical assessment tool — which targets disease biomarkers —…
A new device that uses just a breath sample might, in the future, help diagnose early-stage Parkinson’s patients or identify those who may be at risk, according to researchers.  The innovative technology, developed by researchers at the…
Getting the perspective of Parkinson’s disease patients on their motivations and experiences participating in clinical trials can help increase recruitment and retention of future studies, a report suggests. Although preventable, one of the most common reasons Phase 2 or 3 trials fail is because not enough patients participate.
Longevity Biotech announced plans for a clinical study aiming to identify potential blood-based markers of inflammation that originates in the immune system, biomarkers that may work to better diagnose Parkinson’s and recognize the disease’s different stages. The study, being run with the support of The Michael J. Fox Foundation for…
Athletes playing contact sports for longer than eight years are six times more likely to develop Lewy body disease — a neurodegenerative disorder causing Parkinson’s-like symptoms — compared to those playing football, ice hockey or boxing for fewer years, a study reports. Its authors suggest that years of continual injury…
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