Scientists have discovered that long-term changes in a biomarker of nerve damage, called neurofilament light chain (NfL), could be used to predict cognitive decline in people with Parkinson’s disease due to certain mutations. They found that a slower progression of dementia in people with LRRK2-associated Parkinson’s compared with those…

Subthalamic deep brain stimulation (DBS) significantly eases motor and non-motor symptoms in people with early-onset Parkinson’s disease, a new study suggests. In fact, data showed that individuals with this early-onset form of the neurodegenerative disorder saw more than a 50% improvement, or lessening of motor symptoms, on one…

A new biobank in Sweden, containing blood samples from patients with Parkinson’s disease and age- and sex-matched healthy people — along with data regarding the individuals’ lifestyles and medical histories — may help researchers investigate the underlying mechanisms of the neurodegenerative disorder and find new treatments. The biobank is…

Cases of inherited Parkinson’s disease may be more frequent than previously reported, results from an online global survey suggest. The survey, which was conducted by members of The Michael J. Fox Foundation Global Genetic Parkinson’s Study Group (MJFF-GGPSG), also revealed the willingness of investigators to share clinical information on…

Genetic mutations and consequent impaired activity of mitochondria — known as the powerhouses of the cell — may be a first step contributing to the development of Parkinson’s disease later in life, a new study suggests. The study, “Neural Stem Cells…

Researchers have found that mutations in a gene linked to hereditary forms of Parkinson’s disease — SLC30A10 — cause accumulation of toxic levels of manganese inside cells, which disturbs protein transport and alters nerve cell function, leading to parkinsonian symptoms. The study “SLC30A10 Mutation Involved in Parkinsonism Results in Manganese Accumulation within…

Researchers have found new biomarkers that may improve the ability of clinicians to predict which patients in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease will suffer cognitive impairment within the first three years of their diagnosis, a new study says. These biomarkers include deficits in dopaminergic circuits (neurons that produce dopamine, which…

Researchers have found that selective mutations in the protein alpha-synuclein affect its binding to cell membranes with potential implications in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and therapeutic strategies. The study, “Alpha-Synuclein Disease Mutations Are Structurally Defective and Locally Affect Membrane Binding,” was published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.