Context:
Scientists have identified a new genetic variant associated with Parkinson’s disease. This discovery provides insights into the evolutionary origins of various familial forms of parkinsonism and lays the groundwork for a better understanding and treatment of the condition.
Relevance:
GS III: Science and Technology
Dimensions of the Article:
- Parkinson’s Disease: An Overview
- Recent Advancements in Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease: An Overview
Definition and Background:
- Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement, which can lead to immobility and dementia.
- While the disease typically affects older individuals, younger people can also be diagnosed. Men are more commonly affected than women.
- Over the past 25 years, the global prevalence of PD has doubled, with India accounting for approximately 10% of the global burden.
Causes and Pathophysiology:
- The exact cause remains unknown, but it is thought to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
- Parkinson’s is characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, causing both motor and non-motor symptoms.
Symptoms:
- Motor Symptoms: Slow movement (bradykinesia), tremors, muscle rigidity, and difficulties with walking and balance.
- Non-Motor Symptoms: Cognitive impairments, mental health issues, sleep disturbances, pain, and sensory problems.
Treatment:
- While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, various therapies can help manage and reduce symptoms.
- The most common medication prescribed is a combination of levodopa and carbidopa, which increases dopamine levels in the brain.
- Other treatments include surgical procedures like deep brain stimulation and rehabilitative therapies.
World Parkinson’s Day:
- Observed annually on 11th April, World Parkinson’s Day aims to raise global awareness and understanding of the disease.
Recent Advancements in Understanding Parkinson’s Disease:
Genetic Research:
- Geneticists and neuroscientists are delving into genetic variations to gain a better understanding of Parkinson’s disease.
Linkage Analysis:
- Focuses on studying rare families with inherited parkinsonism to identify gene mutations associated with the disease.
- A recent breakthrough identified a new genetic variant, RAB32 Ser71Arg, which is linked to Parkinson’s across multiple families worldwide.
Genome-wide Association Studies (GWAS):
- Compares genetic data from Parkinson’s patients with that of healthy individuals to identify genomic locations and genes potentially related to the risk of Parkinson’s.
- GWAS has identified over 92 genomic locations and 350 genes that may be associated with Parkinson’s risk.
-Source: The Hindu
