News

A newly identified small molecule compound, called SynuClean-D, can prevent the formation of toxic alpha-synuclein aggregates, disrupt the propagation of amyloid fibrils, and rescue nerve cells from alpha-synuclein-induced death in an animal model of Parkinson’s disease, a study shows. Given this particular activity, SynuClean-D may be a promising candidate…

Parkinson’s researchers need to focus on human cells and tissues, implement modern computer modeling approaches, and shift away from animal models, according to a recent study. Earlier transition from preclinical studies to clinical trials also could be beneficial, the study authors suggest. The study, “Parkinson’s disease…

With its recent award of £1 million (about $1.3 million USD), Parkinson’s UK continues to invest in Keapstone Therapeutics, bringing the biotechnology company closer to developing treatments for Parkinson’s and motor neuron disease (MND), it was announced. Keapstone officials also hope the funding, which will go toward…

Short-term supplementation of vitamin D in high doses may improve balance in people with Parkinson’s disease younger than 66, according to results of a Phase 2 pilot study. The study, “A randomized, controlled pilot study of the effects of vitamin D supplementation on balance in Parkinson’s…

Eradicating Helicobacter pylori infections could improve motor function, ease gut symptoms and increase levodopa’s effectiveness in Parkinson’s patients, according to a review study. The research, “Stomaching the Possibility of a Pathogenic Role for Helicobacter pylori in Parkinson’s Disease,” was published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease.

Treatment with Nuplazid (pimavanserin) does not lead to a different mortality risk compared to the antipsychotic medication Seroquel (quetiapine), or to combination treatment with both medications, in patients with Parkinson’s psychosis, according to results from a large study. The study, “Mortality in patients with Parkinson…

Ohio’s Cleveland Clinic will officially become a Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence on Oct. 2, followed by the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston on Oct. 4, and the Cleveland Clinic Nevada in Las Vegas on Oct. 19. Next month’s three plaque unveiling ceremonies will bring the number of…

Grape skin extract improves muscle function and extends the lifespan of flies with Parkinson’s disease, a study shows. The neuroprotective effect of grape skin extract was due to its potential to rescue mitochondria — cells’ powerhouses — from defects caused by the disease. The study, “Skin extract improves muscle…

A newly discovered inhibitor of the immune protein IRAK4, known as the “master switch” in the development of several diseases, could lead to treatments for autoimmune diseases and neuroinflammatory disorders such as Parkinson’s, according to developer Noxopharm and its majority-owned subsidiary Nyrada. Pre-clinical studies are ongoing to find the…

Men who lack physical activity have a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease at some point in their lives, a systematic review has found. Importantly, findings revealed that even moderate exercise can be enough to counteract this effect. The review, “Association of Levels of Physical Activity With Risk…