Norway scientists Suchi Mittal, et al. have found compounds that reduce levels of a key gene that increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative central nervous system disorder. In Parkinson’s patients, a gene called alpha-sinuclein accumulates in the brain and forms proteins called Lewy bodies, which is a key characteristic in Parkinson’s. As of now, the causes of Parkinson’s are related to genetics, environmental toxins and as mentioned, those Lewy bodies. To learn more, click here.
Researchers have now discovered that a compound approved for asthma treatment reduces alpha-sinuclein that leads to the creation of Lewy bodies. This means that people with Parkinson’s or who might be genetically predisposed to Parkinson’s could be treated with this compound to see if it significantly helps.
This could be an important step to early intervention for those in the Parkinson’s community. Here’s to hoping it pans out! To learn more in Medical News Today, click here. To check out the full study, click here.
