Over the last several years, we’ve seen a big shift in the treatment that individuals suffering from Parkinson’s disease receive. This shift is definitely for the better. As our understanding of the disease and its impact on the human brain and body grow, the treatment that people receive has been improving.
In a recent study, a team of researchers state that they believe they’ve made a major breakthrough in how to treat the disease. This treatment involves enhancing the purity of the cells in the body that are responsible for producing and replenishing dopamine, the neurotransmitter that is associated with Parkinson’s.
The study comes from Aarhus University in Denmark. It builds upon previous research, which used stem cells to target neurons. However, past methods did not see much success as the purity of cells was not drastically improved. This new method uses genetically engineered stem cells and seems to have a higher purity rating, resulting in better outcomes when it comes to transforming neurons and improving their ability to utilize neurotransmitters.
Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that are associated with the quality of message that neurons–brain cells–are capable of transmitting from one to another. We see neurotransmitters as playing a vital role in many conditions, including ADHD, depression, and anxiety. When it comes to Parkinson’s, it is the neurotransmitter dopamine that is at the center of attention. One of the major reasons why Parkinson’s and its accompanying symptoms occur is because the body is no longer able to use dopamine as it once did.
What’s more is that the researchers behind this study believe that this treatment method has fewer side effects than other commonly used treatments. Time and more research will be the judge of this, of course, but in the meantime, this is good news for those that do suffer from Parkinson’s. It means we are one step closer to an effective treatment.
There’s not a cure for Parkinson’s, and this new development does not claim to be one. However, steps forward like this are always good news because they mean the potential for a higher quality of life for those that are currently suffering.
The team published their research in the journal, Nature Communications. There’s always more work to be done, but hopefully this research will prove to be helpful for those that are doing future studies and work in the field of Parkinson’s and Parkinson’s treatment.
This method of treatment might not be readily available, but hopefully it will lead to better treatment in the near future for those with Parkinson’s.
We’re here to help you navigate the ins and outs of senior care. Whether you or a loved one are struggling with Parkinson’s or another issue, the right senior care to help you meet your needs is out there. If you’re unsure of where to start, please feel free to call us. We would be happy to talk more with you.
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