What’s new in the search to treat Parkinson’s disease?

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in the world for which there is no curative treatment. This pathology is characterized by motor symptoms, which are largely due to the death of a specific type of cells in our brain: dopaminergic neurons, so called because of their capacity to produce neuromodulator dopamine. There is evidence that the alpha-synuclein (α-syn) protein plays an important role in this cell loss. In this text, we will focus on reviewing two recent studies that look for new treatment options for Parkinson’s disease. First, we discuss approaches that explore the possibility of restoring dopamine levels, based on the design of novel nanoparticles that regulate its stability and release. On the other hand, we will review research aimed at finding out whether the process of co-release of neurotransmitters, such as glutamate, could confer protection to dopaminergic neurons against α-syn aggregation. Although more research is needed in the area, the advances so far are promising, and the development of more effective treatments for this pathology may be closer than we think.