Alpha-synuclein buildup seen in vagus nerve in prodromal disease

Overproduction of toxic forms of the alpha-synuclein protein — a Parkinson’s disease hallmark — in the vagus nerve, the longest nerve connecting the brain to the intestines and other key organs, disrupts the autonomic nervous system prior to motor symptom onset, a study in a new rat model reported. The…

Mutation Affecting Myelin Protein May Raise Parkinson’s Risk

A specific genetic variant, or mutation, that is associated with an increased risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may also raise a person’s risk of Parkinson’s disease, a study reported. Shared features of both these neurodegenerative disorders include causative processes and “genetic backgrounds,” the researchers noted, suggesting that a mutation affecting…

Innovative ‘Mini-Brains’ May Help Boost Parkinson’s Research, Study Suggests

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…

Insights into Rare Disease May Lead to Novel Therapeutic Targets for Parkinson’s

The rare lysosomal storage disorder Krabbe’s disease is caused by an enzyme deficiency and has been found to have surprising similarities with neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s disease. Establishing this connection can be a valuable tool for developing novel therapeutic targets and new biomarkers for identifying patients at risk for developing Parkinson’s.