Dr Fiona McLean from University of Dundee guest hosts this podcast discussing some of the latest research into Parkinson’s disease with two group leaders from the UK Dementia Research Institute - Dr Dayne Beccano-Kelly, from Cardiff University and Dr Sarah Marzi from Imperial College London.

For those who don’t know (but we’re sure you do) Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability. It is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer's disease. Despite advancements in the understanding of the pathology and its treatment, the cause of PD remains unknown (although our guests have some thoughts on this). Research into the disease has focused on identifying the underlying mechanisms that lead to its development, as well as potential therapeutic strategies – both of these topics are discussed today.

Recent research has implicated genetic and environmental factors in the development of PD, as well as changes in the dopaminergic system – this also happens to be the expert area of our brilliant guest Dr Marzi. A number of genes associated with PD have been identified, including those that encode for α-synuclein and parkin, two proteins that are associated with the development of PD. Additionally, environmental factors, such as exposure to certain neurotoxins and head trauma, have been linked to PD – an area that the awesome Dr Beccano-Kelly know much about. Studying the role of the dopaminergic system in PD, is an area also being investigated. This system is responsible for the production and release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in motor control. In PD, there is an imbalance between the dopaminergic neurons and the other neurotransmitters, resulting in impaired motor control.

But that’s enough from us… listen to the show to hear from Sarah and Dayne to hear about their work in the field and the latest research into Parkinson’s disease.

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You can find out more about our panellists, and their work on our website. There you will also find a full transcript:

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

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This podcast is brought to you by University College London / UCLH NIHR Biomedical Research Centre in association with Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia who we thank for their ongoing support.