Movement symptoms in dystonia found to be caused by spinal cord dysfunction

New research, published in Science Translational Medicine, used state-of-the-art mouse genetics to distinguish whether the brain or spinal cord was responsible for the disorganization of movement experienced by dystonia patients. Focusing on the most common inherited form of dystonia called DYT1, UCL scientists confined a genetic mutation to the spinal cord of mice, while sparing nerve cells in the brain. 

They discovered that the mice consequently developed signs of dystonia that were remarkably similar to those seen in people with the condition. Researchers also observed how specific nerve cells in the spinal cord were affected through the course of the disease. Click here to learn more.

CDNF protein seen to improve motor coordination in Huntington’s mice

The success of CDNF — fully, cerebral dopamine neurotrophic factor — in improving motor coordination in a mouse model of Huntington’s disease supports the protein’s development as a potential therapy for the disorder, according to a new study published in Nature Scientific Reports.

In the study, CDNF was injected into the brain of a mouse model of HD, where it showed benefit. “Collectively our results indicate that CDNF might be a potential drug candidate for the treatment of HD,” the researchers wrote. Click here to learn more.

Biogen announces plans to revise clinical development program for BIIB122

As part of its ongoing Research & Development prioritization initiative and resource allocation, Biogen - a leading global biotechnology company - is planning to revise its clinical development program for BIIB122, a small molecule inhibitor of leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2), which is being developed in collaboration with Denali Therapeutics Inc.

Prior to the planned revisions, the BIIB122 program encompassed two global late-stage clinical trials: the Phase 2b LUMA study in participants with early-stage Parkinson’s disease (PD), which commenced in May 2022, and the Phase 3 LIGHTHOUSE study in participants with PD related to LRRK2 mutations, which commenced in September 2022. Click here to learn more.

Progesterone could be used in the fight against Parkinson’s disease

Medical doctoral students at Ruhr University Bochum in Germany have demonstrated a protective effect of the natural steroid hormone progesterone on the nerve cells of the enteric nervous system, raising hopes that the hormone could be used in the fight against Parkinson’s disease. ENS is a complex network that stretches along the entire gastrointestinal tract.

According to Paula Neufeld, one of the students leading the investigation, "Our research...opens up completely new avenues for studying the neuroprotective mechanisms of action of progesterone inside and outside the intestinal tract." Click here to learn more.

PD patients often start antipsychotics soon after being hospitalized

People with Parkinson’s disease who take antipsychotic medications often begin them shortly after being hospitalized, according to a new study published in JAMDA. The finding implies that poorly managed psychiatric problems likely contribute to hospitalizations. The data emphasize the importance of appropriately supporting and monitoring people with Parkinson’s so psychiatric issues can be identified and dealt with early before they cause serious problems that require a hospital stay. Click here to learn more.