A growing body of evidence is expanding our understanding of the links between inflammation, our immune responses, brain health, and neurodegeneration. In particular, several genes associated with Parkinson's (including LRRK2) are known to be involved in inflammation, and peripheral inflammation has been shown to influence brain function and contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Better understanding the roles of inflammation and our immune responses in Parkinson's disease is important for developing new treatments and strategies to slow or prevent disease progression. In this episode, Dr. Malú Gámez Tansey talks about her research at the intersection of immunology, neuroscience, and genetics. She describes new findings and current projects in her lab, discusses advances in neuroimmunology, and shares her insights on important areas of opportunity in the field. Malú is the Norman and Susan Fixel Chair in Parkinson's Disease, Professor of Neuroscience and Neurology, and Director of the Parkinson's Foundation Research Center of Excellence at the University of Florida College of Medicine. She's also editor-in-chief of Nature Partner Journal Parkinson's Disease.

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The Foundation’s landmark research study is exploring the connection between sense of smell and brain disease. People with and without Parkinson's can help by taking a free scratch-and-sniff test. Get yours at mysmelltest.org/request.

This podcast episode was part of a limited series created by The Michael J. Fox Foundation in 2023 and 2024 for clinicians and researchers in our audience.  These episodes provide a deeper dive into exciting new scientific research in Parkinson’s disease, as well as innovative tools and valuable resources, through conversations with a variety of experts in the field. We hope you enjoy the conversation.