The Fox Focus Fall/Winter 2019 | Page 9

Fall / Winter 2019 | Category One of the most promising targets in Parkinson’s is LRRK2. People with mutations in this gene are at higher risk of Parkinson’s. Research suggests that even Parkinson’s patients without a mutation may benefit from drugs targeting LRRK2 and early trials are now exploring this idea further. The first LRRK2 therapy, from San Francisco biotech Denali, entered trials in 2017. Biogen has recently announced plans to begin human studies of their own and more are on the way. MJFF has been active in supporting all LRRK2 trials, first by addressing potential safety issues and then through recruitment support. “Living with Parkinson’s, I’m as ready as anyone for the next breakthrough,” says Board Chair Jeff Keefer. Visit michaeljfox.org for the latest research news from the Foundation and learn how you can get involved in clinical studies.