The crucial role of ‘chaperones’ in maintaining neuronal function

A team of researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst is the first to show how proteins called “chaperones” are vital in ensuring that neurons can transmit signals to one another. When this neurotransmission breaks down, devastating diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s along with many others, can occur. The team’s research provides a new… Continue reading The crucial role of ‘chaperones’ in maintaining neuronal function

Peptide-guided nanoparticles deliver mRNA to neurons

Engineers have modified lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) — the revolutionary technology behind the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines — to not only cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) but also to target specific types of cells, including neurons. This breakthrough marks a significant step toward potential next-generation treatments for neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Penn-led consortium to advance imaging of brain diseases

A Penn Medicine-led consortium of radiology and chemistry researchers across the United States will advance imaging of diseases like Parkinson’s by testing radiotracers they identified that illuminate α-synuclein (αSyn) or 4R tau proteins on positron emission tomography (PET) scans. Armed with a five-year, $30 million grant from the National Institutes of Neurological Disease and Stroke,… Continue reading Penn-led consortium to advance imaging of brain diseases

Hearing Loss, Incident Parkinson Disease, and Treatment With Hearing Aids

This cohort study analyzes electronic health record data for US veterans with an audiogram to determine whether hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of Parkinson disease and to gauge its effect modification by well-established prodromal conditions and hearing aids.