Parkinson’s Disease

INTRODUCTION• Second most common

human neurodegenerative disorder.

• Prevalence of 1 out 272 in U.S.

• Increases to 4 to 5% for ages 85 and over.

• Degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra.

Wrote an Essay on the “Shaking Palsy.”

SYMPTOMS

Four Cardinal SignsT remorR igidityA kinesian and bradykinesiaP ostural instability

Pathogenesis

Four theories are given: Oxidative damage Environmental toxins Genetic mutations (LRRK2, PARK2,

PARK7, PINK1, SNCA and other unidentified genes)

Accelerated aging

Diagnosis

No definitive tests for PD. PET scans can aid to determine levels of dopamine.

Difficult to diagnose, many symptoms shared with other disorders.

Medical history and neurological tests are conducted to diagnose.

Usually, if two of the cardinal symptoms are present.

Treatment Physical Therapy

Drug Therapy

Surgery

Role of Biotechnology in

Parkinson’s disease:

Stem cell therapy

Gene therapy

Diagnostic marker