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  More
than one million people in the United States are doing battle with the
neuro- degenerative ravages of Parkinson's disease. This disease, which
typically hits people past the age of 65, gradually strips away motor
abilities, leaving them with a slow and awkward gait, rigid limbs, tremor,
shuffling, and a lack of balance. Patients can lose facial expression
and sometimes the ability to speak. In as many as half , the disease also
comes with psychiatric complications of anxiety and depression.No one knows what causes Parkinson's. Most cases arise spontaneously; some are hereditary. What is known is that brain cells in the area of the brain called the "substantia nigra" die off. These are the cells which manufacture the molecule dopamine, a chemical that helps control muscle movement. Drug therapies have focused on replacing the dwindling supply of dopamine or addressing specific symptoms associated with the disease. Thanks to recent advances in the lab, including the pinpointing of several Parkinson's genes, research is exploding. Scientists are now picking apart newly discovered biochemical pathways involved in the disease and uncovering new targets for therapy. CLICK HERE for detailed information about Parkinson's Disease. CLICK HERE for information regarding the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease and other physical manifestations of the disease. |
