Examining a secret passage mutant proteins use to invade the brain

AI SummaryResearchers from Japan have provided new insights into the mechanism of Parkinson’s disease, shedding light on the question of whether protein aggregation or propagation occurs first in neurodegenerative disorders.In many neurodegenerative disorders, abnormal proteins progressively aggregate and propagate in the brain. But what comes first, aggregation or propagation? Researchers from Japan share some new… Continue reading Examining a secret passage mutant proteins use to invade the brain

Clinical Model Could Guide GBA Gene Testing in Parkinson’s

AI SummaryApplying a simple model of clinical and demographic features could help target genetic testing in Parkinson’s disease patients.Applying a simple model of clinical and demographic features associated with GBA mutation carrier status could help target genetic testing in patients with Parkinson’s disease, suggests a new study. Medscape Medical News

[Articles] Identification of genetic risk loci and causal insights associated with Parkinson’s disease in African and African admixed populations: a genome-wide association study

AI SummaryOur study found a new genetic risk factor for Parkinson’s disease in people of African ancestry, which is not present in European populations. This variant has a high risk for Parkinson’s disease and is present in 39% of the cases studied. Understanding ancestry-specific genetic risk is important for targeted treatments in clinical trials.Our study… Continue reading [Articles] Identification of genetic risk loci and causal insights associated with Parkinson’s disease in African and African admixed populations: a genome-wide association study

Interaction of an α-synuclein epitope with HLA-DRB1∗15:01 triggers enteric features in mice reminiscent of prodromal Parkinson’s disease

AI SummaryParkinson’s disease patients have increased numbers of T cells that recognize α-synuclein epitopes. One specific epitope, α-syn32-46, interacts with HLA-DRB1∗15:01. A study on mice suggests that immunization with α-syn32-46 can cause intestinal inflammation, enteric neurodegeneration, constipation, and weight loss, indicating the potential role of α-syn autoimmunity in prodromal PD for individuals carrying HLA-DRB1∗15:01.Parkinson’s disease… Continue reading Interaction of an α-synuclein epitope with HLA-DRB1∗15:01 triggers enteric features in mice reminiscent of prodromal Parkinson’s disease

Summer research offers a springboard to advanced studies

Doctoral studies at MIT aren’t a calling for everyone, but they can be for anyone who has had opportunities to discover that science and technology research is their passion and to build the experience and skills to succeed. For Taylor Baum, Josefina Correa Menéndez, and Karla Alejandra Montejo, three graduate students in just one lab… Continue reading Summer research offers a springboard to advanced studies

Cholinesterase Inhibitors for Treatment of Psychotic Symptoms in Alzheimer Disease and Parkinson Disease

AI SummaryThis meta-analysis investigates the effectiveness of cholinesterase inhibitors in treating psychotic symptoms in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia with Lewy bodies.This meta-analysis examines the use of cholinesterase inhibitors as treatment of psychotic symptoms in patients with Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, and dementia with Lewy bodies.