Parkinson's disease and movement disorders news

Cohesion policy for all - Commissioner Hahn commits with the UN Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It is crucial that EU money is invested on improving the lives of all European citizens, including people with disabilities. EDF wants to make sure that accessibility, non-discrimination and social inclusion, as well as the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) are key goals of the EU Structural Funds. Yesterday EDF President, Yannis Vardakastanis, met the Commissioner for Regional Policy, Johannes Hahn, in order to discuss the future Cohesion Policy 2014-20

Newron Reports Completion of Phase III program for Safinamide in early and advanced Parkinson's disease patients

Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Newron Pharmaceuticals S.p.A. (Newron), a research and development company focused on novel CNS and pain therapies announces the top line results from the last two phase III studies of safinamide as an add-on treatment in both early (MOTION1) and advanced (SETTLE2) Parkinson's disease (PD) atients.

Newron and Zambon enter into a strategic collaboration and licence agreement for Safinamide

Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Newron Pharmaceuticals S.p.A. (Newron), a research and development company focused on novel CNS and pain therapies announces that it has executed with Zambon, the Italian chemical and pharmaceutical Company (Zambon), a strategic collaboration and licence agreement for Newron's lead compound safinamide.

Low serum uric acid concentration in Parkinson's disease in southern Spain

Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This study produced consistent findings that UA might have a protective effect against Parkinson's disease and could influence its clinical progression.

Vitamin K2: new hope for Parkinson's patients

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Neuroscientist Patrik Verstreken, associated with VIB and KU Leuven, succeeded in undoing the effect of one of the genetic defects that leads to Parkinson's using vitamin K2. His discovery gives hope to Parkinson's patients. This research was done in collaboration with colleagues from Northern Illinois University (US) and will be published this evening on the website of the authorative journal Science.

Structural funds: The European Parliament sends a strong message on disability to the member states

Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

During a workshop organised on 8 May by EDF and MEP Danuta Hübner (EPP, Poland), the European Parliament sent a strong messages to the Members States: the removal of crucial conditionalities is not acceptable: the future Cohesion Policy 2014-2020 will have to include persons with disabilities.

Sustained translational repression by eIF2α-P mediates prion neurodegeneration

Sun, 06 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Given the prevalence of protein misfolding and activation of the unfolded protein response in several neurodegenerative diseases, these results suggest that manipulation of common pathways such as translational control, rather than disease-specific approaches, may lead to new therapies preventing synaptic failure and neuronal loss across the spectrum of these disorders.

Canada and Israel join JPND

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Canada has joined JPND as the first ever Third Country member. Israel joins as full member to bring total number of countries participating in JPND to 27.

How does parkinsonism start? Prodromal parkinsonism motor changes in idiopathic REM sleep behaviour disorder

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Patients with idiopathic REM sleep behaviour disorder in an ongoing cohort study were evaluated annually with several quantitative motor measures, including the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, Purdue Pegboard, alternate-tap test and timed up-and-go. Patients who developed parkinsonism were identified from this cohort and matched according to age to normal controls.

Viral-toxin interactions and Parkinson's disease: poly(I:C) priming enhanced the neurodegenerative effects of paraquat

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

These findings suggest that viral agents can sensitize microglial-dependent inflammatory responses, thereby rendering nigral DA neurons vulnerable to further environmental toxin exposure.

HEIDI : A new way of sharing and storing health information in the EU

Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

HEIDI an internet based wiki that presents reliable and comparable data about health in the EU has been launched by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Health & Consumers. Although Heidi has been set up by the Commission, the content is written by European health experts who are responsible for their contributions and can directly upload and edit information.

Role for α6 nicotinic receptors in L-dopa-induced dyskinesias in parkinsonian mice

Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

To conclude, the similar declines in L-dopa-induced AIMs in nicotine-treated wildtype mice and in α6(-/-) mice treated with and without nicotine indicate an essential role for α6β2* nAChRs in the maintenance of L-dopa-induced AIMs. These findings suggest that α6β2* nAChR drugs have potential for reducing L-dopa-induced dyskinesias in Parkinson's disease.

Tricyclic antidepressants delay the need for dopaminergic therapy in early Parkinson's disease

Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

No significant differences were found in UPDRS scores for subjects taking antidepressants compared with those not taking antidepressants. Tricyclic antidepressants are associated with a delay in reaching the end point of need to start dopaminergic therapy. The lack of change in overall UPDRS scores suggests the delay was not attributable to symptomatic effects.

Physiological Phenotype and Vulnerability in Parkinson's Disease

Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Because much of the mitochondrial burden created by this at-risk phenotype is created by Ca2+ entry through L-type voltage-dependent channels for which there are antagonists approved for human use, a neuroprotective strategy to reduce this burden is feasible.

New post-hoc analyses examined Neupro effects on pain, depressed mood, apathy and fatigue in patients with Parkinson's disease

Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Brussels (Belgium), APRIL 26th 2012, 1800 CET Insights into the effects of Neupro (rotigotine transdermal system) on common non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) were presented today at the 64th AAN Annual Meeting in New Orleans, USA.

Successful Outcome for V81444 in Phase I Study

Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Vernalis plc today announces the successful outcome of its Phase I trial of V81444, its adenosine A2A antagonist with potential application in Parkinson's Disease and other CNS indications. The double-blind, placebo controlled study investigated single and multiple ascending doses and was conducted in healthy male volunteers.

MHRA seizes more than £25 million of counterfeit medicine in last five years as new anti-counterfeiting strategy launches

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) launches its second anti-counterfeiting strategy, the UK medicines regulator reveals it has seized more than £25 million of counterfeit and stolen medicines in the last five years.

Weighing Different Scales: Unified Dyskinesia Rating Scale Comes out on Top, Could Speed Development of New Dyskinesia Treatment

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers funded by The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) have identified the best clinical scale for measuring patient response to therapies to treat dyskinesia, the debilitating, uncontrollable movements that are often a side effect of Parkinson's disease (PD) drugs.

Treatment of motor and non-motor features of Parkinson's disease with deep brain stimulation

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Some non-motor symptoms improve after DBS, partly because of motor benefit or reduction of drug treatment, and partly as a direct effect of stimulation. More evidence on the effects of DBS on non-motor symptoms is needed and specifically designed studies are warranted.

Dietary patterns and risk of Parkinson's disease: a case-control study in Japan

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In this casecontrol study in Japan, a dietary pattern consisting of high intakes of vegetables, fruits and fish may be associated with a decreased risk of PD.

Genetic bases and phenotypes of autosomal recessive Parkinson disease in a Turkish population

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Study data suggest that the PRKN gene mutation is the most frequent form of ARPD in Turkey. The proportion of mutations with regard to the age of onset in our population is in the range of those previously described, but our pedigrees are characterized by high rate of consanguinity, which might explain the high proportion of families with homozygous mutations and of patients in more than one generation.

Is alpha-synuclein in the colon a biomarker for premotor Parkinson's Disease? Evidence from 3 cases

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

All subjects showed immunostaining for alpha-synuclein (two, five and two years before first motor Parkinson's disease symptom). No similar alpha-synuclein immunostaining was seen in 23 healthy controls. Staining of samples for substance P suggested colocalization of alpha-synuclein and substance P in perikarya and neurites.

Considerations Regarding the Etiology and Future Treatment of Autosomal Recessive Versus Idiopathic Parkinson Disease

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The authors briefly draw attention to aspects of existing pharmacological and surgical therapies as they relate to the PARK2-linked variant; thereafter, they comment on new research avenues that are aimed at future therapeutic interventions to eventually slow or arrest the progression of a first variant of PD.

Short and valid assessment of apraxia in Parkinson's disease

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

No association was found between the AST and MDS-UPDRS part III, indicating that AST discriminates well (discriminative validity) between apraxia and parkinsonism. Furthermore, AST was associated with ADL and Hoehn & Yahr stage (convergent validity).

Patterns of disability, care needs, and quality of life of people with Parkinson's in a general population sample

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Conclusions: People living in the community with PD have a significant burden of disability. Health related quality of life is also quite poor in people with PD compared to other disabled populations. This study helps to quantify the significant care needs of people with PD.

Rainbow Biosciences, LLC Enters into Letter of Intent with Amarantus BioSciences to Advance Parkinson's Disease Program

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Rainbow BioSciences, a subsidiary of Rainbow Coral Corp has executed a Letter Of Intent to advance Amarantus BioSciences, Inc.'s Parkinson's disease program, comprised of an early detection diagnostic blood test and a diseasemodifying protein drug candidate.

Fall frequency and risk assessment in early Parkinson's disease

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Conclusion: Falls are frequent and are associated with impaired quality of life, even in ePD. Current standard rating scales do not sufficiently explain future fall risk in the absence of a prior fall history. New assessment methods for falls and postural instability are required to better evaluate this important problem.

Distinct roles for direct and indirect pathway striatal neurons in reinforcement

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Stimulating D1 receptorexpressing neurons induced persistent reinforcement, whereas stimulating D2 receptorexpressing neurons induced transient punishment, indicating that activation of these circuits is sufficient to modify the probability of performing future actions.

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Enhances Striatal Plasticity and Prevents Dopaminergic Cell Loss in Parkinsonian Rats

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In conclusion, VIP might display synaptogenetic activity by enhancing the spine density in the striatum of the parkinsonian rats.

N-acetyl-cysteine in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. What are we waiting for?

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The present paper put forward the existing rationale evidence for the use of N-acetyl-cysteine alone or in combination with levodopa in the clinical management of this neurodegenerative disorder.

An Overview of Endogenous Catechol-Isoquinolines and Their Related Enzymes: Possible Biomarkers for PD

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Mass spectrometrybased biomarker discovery, undoubtedly, is still in its early stage of infancy. However, in light of the potential of this technology to provide deep coverage of the body fluid proteomes, it will certainly consolidate its role in development molecular medicine into clinical practice.

The Integrative Care of Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This limited available evidence on the efficacy of integrative healthcare delivery models in PD should serve as a call-to-action for clinicians to work to improve the care, and subsequently the quality of life, of PD patients through streamlining PD-specialized care with multiple complementary clinicians and incorporating patient preferences and goals into treatment.

Deep brain stimulation and cognitive decline in Parkinson's disease: a clinical review

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

On the other hand it has been observed that certain aspects of cognitive performance may decline after DBS, namely when the therapeutic target is the widely used subthalamic nucleus. These are important pieces of information for patients, their families, and health care professionals. This manuscript reviews these aspects and their clinical implications.

Sanofi and Michael J. Fox Foundation Collaborate on Potential New Treatment for Parkinson's Disease

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:28:26 GMT

Paris, France - April 19, 2012 - Sanofi (EURONEXT: SAN and NYSE: SNY) announced today that it has entered into a collaboration with the Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) to conduct a clinical trial to assess the safety and tolerability of AVE 8112, a Sanofi PDE4 inhibitor phosphodiesterase type 4 inhibitor - in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Unmet needs in Parkinson's disease - survey report published

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This report presents the findings of a survey conducted at the European Federation of Neurological Societies (EFNS) Congress in Budapest, 1013 September 2011. The survey aimed to identify the unmet needs in the treatment of patients with Parkinson's disease, as perceived by clinicians.

Intranasal exposure to manganese disrupts neurotransmitter release from glutamatergic synapses in the CNS in vivo

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The commonality of Mn's action between glutamatergic neurons in the olfactory bulb and dopaminergic neurons in the basal ganglia suggests that a disruption of neurotransmitter release may be a general consequence wherever Mn accumulates in the brain and could underlie its pleiotropic effects.

Tracking Parkinson's

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Tracking Parkinson's will be the world's largest ever in-depth study of people with Parkinson's. Parkinson's UK need thousands of people with Parkinson's across the UK to get involved. This ambitious 5-year project, fully funded by Parkinson's UK, aims to speed up our search for a cure by finding 'biomarkers'.

Abbott's Investigational Treatment for Advanced Parkinson's Disease Demonstrates Positive Results in Phase 3 Clinical Trial

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Abbott announced today the results from a Phase 3 trial evaluating the company's investigational compound for advanced Parkinson's disease, levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG). The study showed that patients treated with LCIG for 12 weeks reported clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvements in "off" time compared to levodopa-carbidopa immediate release (IR) tablets, without increasing troublesome dyskinesia.

Resting-state brain connectivity in patients with Parkinson's disease and freezing of gait

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that a resting-state functional connectivity disruption of executive-attention and visual neural networks may be associated with the development of freezing of gait in patients with Parkinson's disease.

Serum Cholesterol and Nigrostriatal R2* Values in Parkinson's Disease

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The data show that higher serum total-cholesterol concentration is associated with lower iron content in substantia nigra and globus pallidus in Parkinson's disease patients. Further studies should investigate whether this is mechanistic or epiphenomenological relationship.

EMA reflection paper with practical guidance on the assurance of ethical and GCP standards in the conduct of clinical trials....

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The European Medicines Agency publishes the final reflection paper on ethical and good clinical practice (GCP) aspects of clinical trials of medicinal products for human use conducted outside of the European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA) and submitted in marketing authorisation applications to the EU regulatory authorities.

Intracerebral inoculation of pathological α-synuclein initiates rapidly progressive neurodegenerative α-synucleinopathy in mice

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Data point to a prion-like cascade in synucleinopathies whereby cellcell transmission and propagation of misfolded α-Syn underlie the CNS spread of LBs/LNs. These findings open up new avenues for understanding the progression of PD and for developing novel therapeutics.

Prevalence of pain in Parkinson's: A systematic review using the modified QUADAS tool

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Surprisingly, only 52.4% of PD patients with pain used analgesics, most often nonopioids. PD patients seem to be predisposed to develop pain and physicians should be aware of pain as a common feature of PD.

parkin-induced defects in neurophysiology and locomotion are generated by metabolic dysfunction and not oxidative stress

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The authors therefore propose that mitochondrial dysfunction in parkin mutants induces Parkinsonian bradykinesia via a neuronal energy deficit and resulting synaptic failure, rather than as a consequence of downstream oxidative stress.

Dopamine and performance in a reinforcement learning task: evidence from Parkinson's disease

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Our data indicate that dopamine modulation of nucleus accumbens and ventromedial prefrontal cortex exerts a specific effect on choice behaviour distinct from pure learning. The findings are in keeping with the substantial other evidence that certain aspects of learning are unaffected by dopamine lesions or depletion, and that dopamine plays a key role in performance that may be distinct from its role in learning.

Identifying prodromal Parkinson's disease: Pre-Motor disorders in Parkinson's disease

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The evidence for the utility of olfaction, RBD, autonomic markers, visual changes, mood disorders, and cognitive loss as markers of prodromal PD and the potential sensitivity and specificity of these markers are summarized.

Neuroimaging: Current role in detecting pre-motor Parkinson's disease

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This review summarizes the state of the art knowledge concerning structural neuroimaging techniques including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and transcranial B-mode-Doppler-sonography (TCS) as well as functional neuroimaging techniques using radiotracer imaging (RTI) with different radioligands in detecting pre-motor PD.

The significance of defining preclinical or prodromal Parkinson's disease

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A body of clinical and pathologic evidence supports the concept that there a pre-Parkinson state exists prior to the time when Parkinson's disease (PD) can be formally diagnosed. The ability to define a the preclinical or prodromal PD state has many important implications.

Pain in Parkinson's disease

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Increased understanding of basal ganglia pathways has provided further insights into the pathogenesis of pain in PD, but the exact mechanism of pain processing and modulation remains unclear.

Metformin-inclusive sulfonylurea therapy reduces risk of Parkinson's occurring with Type 2 diabetes in Taiwanese population

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Conclusions: Incident PD risk in T2DM increases 2.2-fold. Sulfonylureas further increase risk by 57%, which is avoided by combination with metformin.

Piecing together the puzzle of progression and mortality in Parkinson's disease

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Vu et al. have undertaken a complex modeling analysis of a clinical trial dataset to investigate predictors and associations of progression of multiple features Parkinson's disease. Their multifaceted approach is a valuable addition to the literature. In agreement with prior studies, they find that age and UPDRS scores are predictive of future progression.

UCB marks World Parkinson's Disease Day with new 'Parkinson's Well-Being Map'

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Brussels, Belgium, 11th April 2012, 0700 CET UCB is announcing a new initiative for World Parkinson's Disease Day 2012 that is designed to support communication around all aspects of Parkinson's Disease (PD). The Parkinson's Well-Being Map is a visual tool designed to help people with PD discuss their health status and well-being with their care teams. A new video 'Living with Parkinson's Disease: Insights and Inspirations' is also shared today and gives a voice to people with Parkinson's on the effects

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of antidepressants in Parkinson disease

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Conclusions: Both paroxetine and venlafaxine XR significantly improved depression in subjects with PD. Both medications were generally safe and well tolerated and did not worsen motor function.

Romania's Antiparkinson Association celebrates World Parkinson's Disease Day

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Celebrations included a conference on Parkinson's disease called "Do not leave them alone" in which people with Parkinson's could have interactive discussions with medical staff about the challenges they face in everyday life as well as find out about new technologies and treatments

Glyphosate induced cell death through apoptotic and autophagic mechanisms

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Furthermore, the results showed that glyphosate induced cell death via autophagy pathways in addition to activating apoptotic pathways. Interestingly, deactivation of Beclin-1 gene attenuated both apoptosis and autophagy in glyphosate treated differentiated PC12 cells, suggesting that Beclin1 gene is involved in the crosstalk between the two mechanisms.

Patient-led European Patients' Academy on Therapeutic Innovation launched, educating patients about medicines R&D

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The European Patients' Academy on Therapeutic Innovation (EUPATI) was successfully launched on 27 March 2012 during the DIA EuroMeeting in Copenhagen. Over the next five years, this innovative patient-led academy will lead an ambitious project to develop educational material, training courses and a public Internet library to educate patient representatives and the lay public about all processes involved in medicines development. It will address topics like personalised and predictive medicine, design and co

BRAVE Awards 2012 to Recognize Caregivers Now Accepting Nominations

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The BRAVE Awards, an international awards program intended to recognize everyday people who serve as caregivers, is now accepting nominations. Developed and implemented by Shire plc, the global specialty biopharmaceutical company, the program is designed to recognize the courage and dedication of non-professional caregivers.

LSVT LOUD and LSVT BIG: Behavioral Treatment Programs for Speech and Body Movement in Parkinson

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The purpose of this paper is to provide an integrative discussion of the LSVT Programs including the rationale for their fundamentals, a summary of efficacy data, and a discussion of limitations and future directions for research.

Gene Therapy for Parkinson's Disease

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This paper summarises the theoretical approaches to gene therapy for Parkinson's disease and the findings of clinical trials in this rapidly changing field.

Web-Based Assessment of Visual and Visuospatial Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Demonstrating the construct validity of the web-based questionnaire, self-rated ADL and visual and visuospatial functioning were significantly associated with performance on objective measures of these abilities (all P's <0.01). The findings indicate that web-based administration may be a reliable and valid method of assessing visual and visuospatial and ADL functioning in PD.

Inflammatory Pathways in Parkinson's Disease; A BNE Microarray Study

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Extracellular ATP and reactive astrocytes appear to be responsible for the activation of microglia which in turn release proinflammatory cytokines contributing further to the parkinsonian condition. In addition to tackling oxidative stress pathways the authors also suggest to reduce microglial and endothelial activation to support neuronal outgrowth.

Rehabilitation and Parkinson's Disease

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Although results from studies of the neuroprotective effects of exercise are mixed, one consistent finding from animal models and human trials is the lack of adverse effects of exercise and physical activity on anatomic and behavioral outcomes.

Genetic Rat Models of Parkinson's Disease

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In this paper authors focused on the various transgenic rat models of PD in terms of their ability to mimic key symptoms of PD in a progressive manner.

Dopamine Agonists and Pathologic Behaviors

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

These observations suggest the D3 receptor as a therapeutic target for obsessive-compulsive disorder and substance abuse, and improved understanding of D3 receptor function may aid drug design of future atypical antipsychotics.

Neuropsychiatry of Parkinson's Disease

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Among nonmotor symptoms, neuropsychiatric syndromes (or behavioral and psychological symptoms) are of paramount importance. Their pathogenesis in PD is rather complex, involving neurodegenerative, drug-related, and psychological mechanisms. Their recognition and management represent a great challenge.

Neuroinflammation: A Lesson from Genetically Manipulated Mouse Models of α-Synucleinopathies

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Thus, the results in αS transgenic mice and related model mice are consistent with the idea that neuroinflammation in PD is a double-edged sword that is protective in the early stage of neurodegeneration but becomes detrimental with disease progression.

Compensatory premotor activity during affective face processing in subclinical carriers of a single mutant Parkin allele

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that compensatory activity in the ventrolateral premotor cortex during processing of affective facial gestures can reduce impairments in facial emotion recognition in subclinical Parkin mutation carriers. A breakdown of this compensatory mechanism might lead to the impairment of facial expressivity and facial emotion recognition observed in manifest Parkinson's disease.

The History of Parkinson's Disease: Early Clinical Descriptions and Neurological Therapies

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Early treatments of Parkinson's disease were based on empirical observation, and anticholinergic drugs were used as early as the nineteenth century. The discovery of dopaminergic deficits in Parkinson's disease and the synthetic pathway of dopamine led to the first human trials of levodopa.

Curcumin Prevents Aggregation in α-Synuclein by Increasing Reconfiguration Rate

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The study concludes that α-synuclein is prone to aggregation because its reconfiguration rate is slow enough to expose hydrophobic residues on the same time scale that bimolecular association occurs. Curcumin rescues the protein from aggregation by increasing the reconfiguration rate into a faster regime.

Cholinesterase inhibitors for dementia with Lewy bodies, Parkinson's disease dementia and cognitive impairment in Parkinson's

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

To assess the efficacy, safety and tolerability of cholinesterase inhibitors in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), Parkinson's disease with dementia (PDD), and cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease falling short of dementia (CIND-PD) (considered as separate phenomena and also grouped together as Lewy body disease).

MHRA publishes fifth report on Better Regulation of Medicines Initiative

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) today published its fifth report on the Better Regulation of Medicines Initiative (BROMI).

Artistic productivity and creative thinking in Parkinson's disease

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This study suggests that newly acquired artistic-like production in patients with PD is not associated with impulsivity or ICDs. Artistic-like production might represent the emerging of innate skills in a subset of predisposed patients with PD on dopaminergic therapy.

Phosphorylated α-Synuclein in Parkinson's Disease

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A highly sensitive and specific assay was established and used to measure PS-129 together with total α-synuclein in the CSF of patients with PD, other parkinsonian disorders such as multiple system atrophy (MSA) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and healthy individuals (a total of ~600 samples).

Viral and Inflammatory Triggers of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Here, authors synthesize research behind the emerging hypothesis that inflammationwhich can result, for example, from viral infectionscan initiate and propagate chronic neuronal dysfunction, an event that precedes the clinical onset of many neurodegenerative diseases.

Apathy in Parkinson's disease: Diagnostic and etiological dilemmas

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Exploratory analysis of the primary endpoint for 100 mg/day demonstrated that the addition of safinamide to a stable dose of DA improves motor symptoms in early PD and warrants further investigation.

Paradoxical worsening of gait with levodopa in Parkinson disease

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

While there are many "nondopaminergic" features of PD that do not improve with levodopa, PD motor symptoms generally improve with dopaminergic medications. However, not all the motor manifestations of PD are improved to the same extent and some may not respond at all to levodopa. Tremor is often less responsive to levodopa than bradykinesia.

Prolonged Maturation Culture Favors Reduction in Tumorigenicity & Dopaminergic Function of Human ESC-Derived Neural Cells ....

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

These results support the idea that human ESCs, if appropriately matured, can serve as a source for dopaminergic neurons without forming any tumors in a primate brain.

Parkin controls dopamine utilization in human midbrain dopaminergic neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The results suggest that parkin controls dopamine utilization in human midbrain DA neurons by enhancing the precision of DA neurotransmission and suppressing dopamine oxidation. Thus, the study provides novel targets and a physiologically relevant screening platform for disease-modifying therapies of PD.

Penetrance of Parkinson disease in glucocerebrosidase gene mutation carriers

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The relatively high penetrance estimate in GBA carriers obtained in this study should lead to consideration of GBA as a dominant causal gene with reduced penetrance and should be taken into account for genetic counseling in relatives of patients with GD and patients with GBA-associated PD.

Better protection of public health: European Medicines Agency counts down to introduction of new pharmacovigilance legislation

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The European Medicines Agency, together with the European Member States and the European Commission, is preparing for the introduction of the new pharmacovigilance legislation in July 2012.

Neurocognitive and atrophic patterns in Parkinson's disease based on subjective memory complaints

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Study data demonstrated that Parkinson's disease patients with subjective memory complaints showed a poorer performance on tasks related to verbal fluency and attention with more severe cortical atrophy compared to those without subjective memory complaints, suggesting that subjective memory complaints in patients with Parkinson's disease may represent an early manifestation of underlying Parkinson's disease-related pathological changes.

Aggregation of α-synuclein is kinetically controlled by intramolecular diffusion

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This work provides unique insights into the earliest steps of α-synuclein aggregation pathway and should provide the basis for the development of drugs that can prevent aggregation at the initial stage.

Eurobarometer survey Active Ageing

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As the 2012 European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations gets off the ground, the European Commission has published an extensive survey on active ageing to understand citizens' views and attitudes towards older people.

Polyneuropathy while on duodenal levodopa infusion in Parkinson's disease patients: we must be alert

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Vitamin B12 supplementation may need to be considered in PD patients on duodenal levodopa infusion therapy. Vitamin B12 deficiency in patients on duodenal levodopa infusion therapy may be more frequent than the published data suggest. We must be alert.

Movement orientation switching with the eyes and lower limb in Parkinson disease

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In PD, switch time and movement velocity of the lower limb, but not the eyes, correlated with bradykinesia and postural instability/gait. Study results suggest that individuals with PD experience movement-switching deficits with both the eyes and lower limb, perhaps driven by overall bradykinesia.

A DNA resequencing array for genes involved in Parkinson's disease

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The authors propose that this technology offers a robust and cost-effective alternative to targeted sequencing using traditional sequencing methods, and here we demonstrate the potential of this approach for either routine clinical investigation or for research studies aimed at understanding the genetic aetiology of PD.

The Q10 questionnaire for detection of wearing-off phenomena in Parkinson's disease

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Q10 items were selected from the QUICK validation study data set through statistical analysis and it was then tested on a sample of 162 PD patients, 64.8% with wearing-off. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 96%, 63%, and 85% respectively with one positive response and 90%, 70%, and 83% respectively with two positive responses.

''On'' state freezing of gait in Parkinson disease: A paradoxical levodopa-induced complication

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Conclusions: True on FOG exists as a rare phenotype in PD, unassociated with cognitive impairment or a predating off FOG. Distinguishing the different FOG subtypes requires a comprehensive motor assessment in at least 3 medication states.

Gender-related differences in the burden of non-motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

To conclude, in this study significant differences between men and women in prevalence and severity of fatigue, mood, sexual and digestive problems, pain, restless legs, and daytime sleepiness were found. Gender-related patterns of NMS involvement may be relevant for clinical trials in PD.

Assessment of appropriate medication administration for hospitalized patients with Parkinson's disease

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Conclusion: Adherence to regular PD medication dosing schedules during hospitalization is problematic, but improves with specialist consultation. Staff involved in the admission process for PD patients should work to safeguard against disruption of the prescribed home dosing schedule.

In memoriam to András Fazekas

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 16:30:00 GMT

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing away of Dr András Fazekas, who passed away suddenly on the 1st of January.

Evidence of an association between the scavenger receptor class B member 2 gene and Parkinson's disease

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This study supports a genetic contribution of the SCARB2 locus to PD; future studies in larger cohorts are necessary to verify this finding.

Moving from continuous dopaminergic stimulation to continuous drug delivery in the treatment of Parkinson's disease

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This review presents the evidence for using CDD as a working concept for the early and later stages of PD and in the treatment of motor complications and motor fluctuations. CDD as an approach to the treatment of PD may improve the outcome of therapy and explain the differences between drug classes and the delivery systems employed.

Predictors of Survival in Patients With Parkinson Disease

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

To determine the life expectancy of patients with Parkinson disease (PD) in the United States and identify demographic, geographic, and clinical factors that influence survival.

Probable Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder Increases Risk for Mild Cognitive Impairment and Parkinson Disease

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Interpretation: In this population-based cohort study, authors observed that pRBD confers a 2.2-fold increased risk of developing MCI/PD over 4 years.

Relationships between disability, quality of life and prevalence of nonmotor symptoms in Parkinson's disease

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A Genetic Screening Strategy Identifies Novel Regulators of the Proteostasis Network

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

This study identified new components of the proteostasis network that can suppress aggregation and proteotoxicity, by performing RNA interference (RNAi) genetic screens for multiple unrelated conformationally challenged cytoplasmic proteins expressed in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Dopamine neurons derived from human ES cells efficiently engraft in animal models of Parkinson's disease

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

In vivo survival and function is demonstrated in Parkinson's disease models using three host species. Long-term engraftment in 6-hydroxy-dopamine-lesioned mice and rats demonstrates robust survival of midbrain DA neurons derived from human embryonic stem (ES) cells, complete restoration of amphetamine-induced rotation behaviour and improvements in tests of forelimb use and akinesia.

A novel neuroprotective therapy for Parkinson's using a viral noncoding RNA that protects mitochondrial Complex I activity

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

In this study authors have demonstrated that the administration of a novel noncoding p137 RNA, derived from the human cytomegaloviral β2.7 transcript, can prevent and rescue dopaminergic cell death in vitro and in animal models of PD by protecting mitochondrial Complex I activity.

Closed-Loop VR-Based Interaction to Improve Walking in Parkinson's Disease

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Study authors conclude that the novel effects of the closed-loop visual cues produce mixed outcomes in walking performance. While step initiation improved spontaneously, the normalization of speed and step length would require cognitive strategies and practice as indicated in previous studies.

Quadriceps Muscle Weakness, Activation Deficits, and Fatigue With Parkinson Disease

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

These findings provide additional evidence for lower-extremity strength loss with PD; central activation deficits may account for some of the strength deficits, especially with increased PD motor signs.

Changes in quality of life, burden and mood among spouses of Parkinson's disease patients receiving neurostimulation

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The spouses' mean mood and quality of life scores changed little, while burden improved in younger spouses. There was no significant change in the spouses' overall status. However, at the individual level the effect of surgery was more frequently negative than positive.

Depression and care-dependency in Parkinson's disease: Results from a nationwide study of 1449 outpatients

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Older age, longer duration and increased severity of PD contribute to care-dependency in patients with untreated depression. Treatment of depression is associated with lower rates of care-dependency.

LINGO-2 polymorphism and the risk of Parkinson's disease in Taiwan

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Recently, some variants of LINGO-1 and LINGO-2 have been reported as risk factors for developing PD in some Caucasian populations, but which has not been confirmed in others. This study aimed to assess whether the LINGO-2 variant (rs10968280) is associated with PD among Taiwanese.

Can Parkinson's disease pathology be propagated from one neuron to another?

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

It is speculated that misfolded α-synuclein transfers between cells in a prion-like manner, thereby mediating the spread of the neuropathology. This review discusses the staging (according to Braak) of Parkinson pathology and the concept describing the disease progression from one region of the brain to the other.

Understanding the impact of deep brain stimulation on ambulatory activity in advanced Parkinson's disease

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The results of this study are despite significant improvements in motor symptoms after surgery, the volume of ambulatory activity (total number of steps per day) did not change (P = 0.468). However, significant increases in length and variability of walking bouts emerged, suggesting improvements in diversity and flexibility of walking patterns.

Personality traits in patients with Parkinson's disease: assessment and clinical implications

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The study concluded that the definition of a pre-motor phase of PD, based on non-motor symptoms, should search for the presence of concomitant affective disorders and for a positive psychiatric history for affective disorders rather than for a typical personality profile or personality changes.

Solvent exposures and parkinson disease risk in twins

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Exposure to specific solvents may increase risk of PD. TCE is the most common organic contaminant in groundwater, and PERC and CCl4 are also ubiquitous in the environment. Study findings require replication in other populations with well-characterized exposures, but the potential public health implications are substantial.

Parkinson's UK National Campaigns Network

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Join Parkinson's UK National Campaigns Network to get regular updates about our national campaigning work and find out how you can get involved.

New Good Clinical Practice (GCP) discussion forum to be launched

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MHRA announces that a new Agency discussion forum for Good Clinical Practice (GCP) has been created as a communication tool to help all those involved in the conduct of clinical trials implement quality procedures that can ensure compliance with clinical trials legislation and GCP requirements. This will be launched shortly.

Are dopa-responsive dystonia and Parkinson's disease related disorders? A case report

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Patients with mild parkinsonian symptoms, excellent response to low dosages of dopaminergic drugs and a reduced dopamine-transporter uptake in [123I] FP-CIT-SPECT might more commonly be GCH1 mutation carriers than has previously been supposed. PD patients with a positive family history of DRD and combination of these clinical symptoms should be offered genetic counselling and testing for GCH1.

Contribution of routine brain MRI to the differential diagnosis of parkinsonism: a 3-year prospective follow-up study

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

This study evaluates what routine brain MRI contributes to the clinical diagnosis, in both early and advanced disease stages.

Impact of a weekly dance class on the functional mobility and on the quality of life of individuals with Parkinson's disease

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The findings demonstrate that dance has beneficial effect on the functional mobility of individuals with PD. Further, dance improves the quality of life of the patients and their caregivers. Dance may lead to better therapeutic strategies as it is engaging and enjoyable.

Alpha-synuclein in colonic submucosa in early untreated Parkinson's disease

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

This study suggests a pattern of α-synuclein staining in Parkinson's disease that was distinct from healthy subjects and those with inflammatory bowel disease. The absence of this pattern in subjects with inflammatory bowel disease suggests it is not a sequel of inflammation or oxidative stress.

First pan-European 'joint programming research initiative' will tackle Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Leading researchers from across Europe will gather today in Stockholm to develop a European-wide research strategy to tackle neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease.

Confirmation of LRRK2 S1647T variant as a risk factor for Parkinson's disease in Southern China

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

LRRK2 S1647T increases the risk of Parkinson's disease in southern China.