In this episode of the Parkinson's Podcast, learn about gene therapy for Parkinson's, including common misunderstandings and ongoing research about it.

This episode contains some technical terms and abbreviations. For your convenience, here is a short list of definitions that might be helpful.

AADC – Aromatic L-Amino Acid Decarboxylase: An enzyme that helps make dopamine (not a rock and roll band)

AAV – Adeno-Associated Virus: A harmless virus used to deliver gene therapy

CDNF – Cerebral Dopamine Neurotrophic Factor: A protein that helps keep dopamine-producing cells healthy

DBS – Deep Brain Stimulation: A surgical treatment that uses electrical signals to help control symptoms

GAD – Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase: An enzyme that helps rebalance brain circuits.

GBA – A gene linked to Parkinson's risk

GCH1 – GTP Cyclohydrolase 1: An enzyme that supports dopamine production.

GDNF – Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor: A protein that helps protect brain cells

LRRK2 – A gene linked to Parkinson's risk

PARK2 – A gene linked to Parkinson's risk

PET – Positron Emission Tomography: A brain scan that shows chemical activity

PINK1 – A gene linked to Parkinson's risk

SNCA – A gene linked to Parkinson's risk

More information about Gene Therapy for Parkinson's is available here:

https://davisphinneyfoundation.org/blog/gene-therapy-parkinsons/

https://youtu.be/n2KNtRK3SIk

https://youtu.be/v9mJiO4EEag

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