Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.
It is the second most prevalent neurogenerative disease associated with aging and the leading movement disorder.
Despite its prevalence, the underlying cause of PD remains largely unknown.
However, scientists from the University of Copenhagen have recently made a significant discovery, identifying a pathway blockage that disrupts the regulation of mitochondria, the powerhouse of nerve cells.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease is characterized by the gradual degeneration of neurons, leading to the development of various symptoms and, in some cases, dementia.
Like cells in our body, brain cells rely on efficient signaling to maintain their health and eliminate waste products, including damaged mitochondria.
However, the researchers found that a specific signaling blockage in the brain cells prevents the clearance of damaged mitochondria, resulting in their accumulation and an inadequate energy supply for the cells.
Dysregulation of Immune Genes and Energy Supply
The blockage in the pathway is caused by a dysregulation of immune genes, which are typically responsible for fighting against viruses.
However, the study revealed that these genes also play a crucial role in regulating the energy supply of nerve cells.
The dysregulation hinders energy production in mitochondria and leads to the accumulation of damaged mitochondrial mass.
As a result, toxic proteins increase, causing the gradual death of neurons and the manifestation of Parkinson’s Disease symptoms.
Pathways and their Importance
The pathways affected by the dysregulation of immune genes are not only crucial for brain functions but also associated with microbial and virus recognition.
They are vital in combating diseases like COVID-19. In fact, a mutation in a related gene has been linked to severe outcomes after contracting COVID-19.
This highlights the significance of these pathways in both neurological disorders and viral infections.
Investigating Gene Patterns and Protein Expression
To unravel the mechanisms underlying Parkinson’s Disease, the researchers analyzed four data sets containing information about gene expression in neurons from brains affected by PD.
They compared the gene patterns in patients with PD and those who developed PD with dementia.
The analysis revealed that the accumulation of damaged mitochondria resulted in the increased expression of toxic proteins.
Moreover, they found that a protein called PIAS2 was highly expressed in the neurons of PD patients when compared to healthy individuals of the same age without the disease.
Future Implications and Treatment Potential
The identification of this pathway blockage opens new avenues for research in countering its effects.
The researchers suggest that targeting this pathway could have a positive impact on PD, potentially preventing the development of dementia.
Additionally, they propose that further investigation should be conducted to evaluate the involvement of this pathway in other forms of familial Parkinson’s Disease.
The study conducted by Professor Shohreh Issazadeh-Navikas and her team provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying Parkinson’s Disease.
By uncovering the pathway blockage that disrupts mitochondrial regulation, the study offers potential targets for future treatments and interventions.
The findings also shed light on the relationship between immune genes, energy supply, and the development of neurological disorders.
This research contributes to our understanding of PD and may lead to advancements in preventing dementia associated with the disease.
The study was published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry.
If you care about Parkinson’s disease, please read studies that Vitamin B may slow down cognitive decline, and the Mediterranean diet could help lower the risk of Parkinson’s disease.
For more information about brain health, please see recent studies that blueberry supplements may prevent cognitive decline, and results showing Plant-based diets could protect cognitive health from air pollution.
Copyright © 2023 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
