General PD Knowledge
What type of disorder is Parkinson’s Disease (PD)?
A neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra
What is the function of α-synuclein under normal conditions?
Synaptic vesicle dynamics and mitochondrial function.
What aspect of aging is most affected by PD?
Mobility and independence due to neurodegeneration.
What role does exercise play in managing PD?
Improves quality of life and helps manage symptoms.
What is Tavapadon, and what does it aim to treat?
A dopamine receptor partial agonist to reduce motor symptoms
Name two environmental factors linked to Parkinson’s Disease
Dietary habits, toxin exposure, smoking, or caffeine consumption
What happens when α-synuclein accumulates in PD?
Forms toxic aggregates like oligomers and fibrils, disrupting cellular systems.
How does PD impact caregivers emotionally?
Causes stress, emotional strain, and increased rates of depression and anxiety.
Name a supportive therapy for PD patients.
Physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy.
What does IRL790 target?
t modulates dopamine receptors to reduce motor symptoms
What are common motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?
Tremors, slow movements, limb stiffness, and balance issues
Which two mitochondrial complexes are key sites of ROS production in PD?
Complexes I and III
Name one cognitive effect of PD
Memory loss, risk of dementia, or cognitive processing slowdowns.
What surgical intervention helps reduce motor symptoms in PD?
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
How does Deferiprone work to slow PD progression?
It binds and removes excess iron, targeting the ferroptosis pathway
What is the prevalence of Parkinson’s Disease globally?
Over 10 million people worldwide.
How does oxidative stress link to α-synuclein aggregation?
It impairs lysosomal autophagy, accelerating α-synuclein toxicity.
How does mitochondrial dysfunction contribute to PD’s biological impacts?
Causes energy deficits and accelerates neuronal damage.
What is the “gold standard” pharmacological treatment for PD?
Levodopa
What is the purpose of Prasinezumab?
An antibody targeting α-synuclein to reduce its aggregation.
What is a non-motor symptom associated with advanced Parkinson’s Disease?
Cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, or autonomic dysfunction.
What triggers ferroptosis in Parkinson’s Disease?
Abnormal iron metabolism and severe lipid peroxidation
What financial challenges do families of PD patients face?
High costs of medical care and reduced income due to caregiving responsibilities
What are the three treatments types for PD?
Pharmacological, surgical, and lifestyle therapies
Why is Tavapadon undergoing further trials?
To evaluate its long-term effectiveness and safety.