What research is being done into these shared pathologies of neurodegenerative diseases?
Large-scale studies that combine data from numerous neurodegenerative diseases are improving our understanding of what these diseases have in common and what may be unique. The result could be new approaches to diagnosing and treating not just Parkinson’ s, but also many other forms of neurodegenerative disease.
Neurotransmitters and neurochemical targets Enhancing dopamine and other chemical messengers that allow neurons to communicate with each other
Cell replacement Replacing damaged or lost cells with stem cell and other cell-based approaches
Alpha-synuclein Inhibiting or reducing the misfolded protein that clumps in the brain
Genetic variations( like LRRK2 or GBA1) Modulating the activity of genes associated with PD
Inflammation and immune system targets Reducing bad inflammation stemming from an overactive immune respons
Cellular recycling mechanisms Enhancing the cell’ s ability to break down and recycle damaged or misfolded proteins
General neuroprotection Strengthening brain cells’ resilience and ability to protect against factors that drive neurodegeneration
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