New research using zebrafish may hold clue to early-onset
Parkinson's
8 May 2009
The
Parkinson's Disease Society (PDS) has announced funding of nearly
£240,000 towards research at the University of Sheffield, using
zebrafish to look into the possibility of slowing down the
onset of Parkinson's disease.
Dr Oliver Bandmann and his team will focus on the gene PARK 2,
as this is associated with an inherited form of Parkinson's that
strikes at an early age, but can also result in Parkinson's
presenting later in life.
It is estimated that 1 in 20 people with Parkinson's is under
the age of 40 when diagnosed.
Specific changes or mutations in both copies of the PARK 2 gene
(which produces the protein parkin), are the most common
identifiable cause for the inherited form of early-onset
Parkinson's. We don't know yet how these lead to the death of the
dopamine-producing nerve cells which cause Parkinson's.
There is evidence to suggest that parkin may interfere with the
working of mitochondria, which produce sufficient energy to power
the cells to work normally.
Dr Bandmann's team will use tropical zebrafish, which are around
3cm long, because their PARK 2 gene is very similar to that found
in humans.
Dr Bandmann explains:
"By looking at what happens when the PARK 2 gene is removed from
the zebrafish, we hope to understand how defects in the human PARK
2 gene result in Parkinson's.
"Ultimately, it may be possible to use zebrafish that lack the
PARK 2 gene to screen for new drugs that could slow down
early-onset Parkinson's."
Dr Kieran Breen, Director of Research and Development at the PDS
adds:
"We are delighted to fund this kind of innovative genetic
research, looking at the possible causes of Parkinson's, so that
new drug treatments can be developed.
"Dr Bandmann's research will increase our understanding of the
causes of the condition."
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