Select Page ::

Methylphenidate for gait hypokinesia and freezing in patients with Parkinson’s disease undergoing subthalamic …

Posted on June 1, 2012 by Fredricko

This multicentre, parallel, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised trial was done in 13 movement disorders departments in France between October, 2009, and December, 2011. Eligible patients were younger than 80 years and had Parkinson's disease, severe gait disorders, and freezing of gate despite optimised treatment of motor fluctuations with dopaminergic drugs and subthalamic stimulation. We randomly assigned patients (1:1 with a computer random-number generator in blocks of four) to receive methylphenidate (1 mg/kg per day) or placebo capsules for 90 days. Patients, their carers, study staff, investigators, and data analysts were masked to treatment allocation. To control for confounding effects of levodopa we assessed patients under standardised conditions with an acute levodopa challenge. Our primary outcome was a change in the number of steps during the stand-walk-sit (SWS) test without levodopa. We compared the respective mean numbers of steps at day 90 in the methylphenidate and placebo groups in a covariance analysis and adjusted for baseline differences. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00914095.

Latest Doctor Line9: Parkinson’s

Posted on June 1, 2012 by Fredricko

KUSA - If you or someone you know has Parkinson's disease (PD) you are not alone. In the United States, as many as 60,000 cases of PD are diagnosed each year. Our morning show devoted a full call-in to the topic on Thursday.

We had Parkinson's disease specialists in our information center, along with the President of the Parkinson Association of the Rockies.

The experts say (PD) is a neurodegenerative brain disorder that progresses slowly in most people. What this means is that individuals with PD will be living with PD for twenty years or more from the time of diagnosis.

While Parkinson's disease itself is not fatal, the Center for Disease Control rated complications from the disease as the 14th top cause of death in the United States. There is currently no cure for Parkinson's; however, there are treatments that help control the symptoms of PD and can give those afflicted with it, a good quality of life.

Learn more by visiting:http://www.parkinsonrockies.org/

Original post:
Latest Doctor Line9: Parkinson's

Man’s ‘Race to the Clouds’ will help fight Parkinson’s disease

Posted on May 21, 2012 by Fredricko

WAPELLO, Iowa Riding a motorcycle takes a steady hand. Although Jeff Weikert doesnt have that luxury anymore, that wont stop him from riding.

In 2009, Weikert, 51, of Wapello, was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease, a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. The disease hasnt stopped him from riding, though.

The career motorcycle and stock car racer signed up to participate in the 90th edition of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, also known as the Race to the Clouds, in Colorado Springs, Colo.

To participate, one has to submit a resume of personal racing history. After Weikert submitted his on Dec. 1, 2011, his wife, Angie, 46, said they were invited to participate in the race.

Its fine with me, and hes been racing since Ive known him, Angie said. Its one more race that was on his bucket list.

Angie said the last race that her husband participated in was in 2010 for District 17, an American Motorcycle Association organization that competes in Illinois. She described that race as featuring specialty made cycles through an obstacle course.

Its timed, but slow and about balancing, Angie said. His Parkinsons prevented him from competing again after he was diagnosed.

For the race in Colorado, Weikert will ride a 1974 Honda 250cc motorcycle. The cycle was built and is owned by Paynes Cycle Center in Rock Island. He is only one of two riders from Iowa to compete in the 200-man race.

Heading to Colorado with Jeff and his wife for the race on July 8 are their two sons, Jonathan and Jacob and Jacobs wife, Jessica. Others include members of Paynes Cycle Center and other friends and family to help with their fundraising.

After Jeff was diagnosed, he and his wife sought information about the disease through the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinsons Research. For the race, the Weikerts have teamed up with the foundation to help raise awareness and money.

Original post:
Man's 'Race to the Clouds' will help fight Parkinson’s disease

Healthbeat Report: Predicting Parkinson’s

Posted on May 25, 2012 by Fredricko

by Sylvia Perez and Christine Tressel

May 24, 2012 (CHICAGO) -- Colonoscopies are known for detecting early signs of cancer in the colon. Now Chicago researchers say this common test may help reveal who might be at risk of developing Parkinson's disease. They have discovered a clue in the gut that could be a game changer for early diagnosis and even treating the disease.

Richard Fiske Bailey says even he had a hard time realizing something was happening with his body. It was the way he was driving his sports car that caught the attention of friends.

"When I went to shift gears I would reach down with my left hand and shift I would shift with my left hand instead of my right hand, I never noticed it. And people would start to say, what is wrong," Fiske said.

It took a long time but eventually he had a diagnosis: Parkinson's disease.

"I was formally diagnosed in 2003 by my fifth neurologist," Fiske said.

A slight tremor in a hand, tense muscles and slow movements are some of the more distinctive signs suggesting Parkinson's disease. But even these can be confused with other conditions. That means thousands of cases are not diagnosed until a lot of brain cells are gone.

Parkinson's disease occurs when the nerve cells in the brain that make a chemical called dopamine are slowly destroyed. No one is sure why that happens.

Now researchers are turning to what would seem an unlikely source of a brain disorder: the gut.

"This area of research is really hot right now, and we think it's really important," said Dr. Kathleen Shannon, neurologist, Rush University Medical Center

More:
Healthbeat Report: Predicting Parkinson's

Freezing Parkinson’s in its tracks

Posted on May 3, 2012 by Fredricko

Public release date: 2-May-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: George Hunka ghunka@aftau.org 212-742-9070 American Friends of Tel Aviv University

Parkinson's disease, a disorder which affects movement and cognition, affects over a million Americans, including actor Michael J. Fox, who first brought it to the attention of many TV-watching Americans. It's characterized by a gradual loss of neurons that produce dopamine. Mutations in the gene known as DJ-1 lead to accelerated loss of dopaminergic neurons and result in the onset of Parkinson's symptoms at a young age.

The ability to modify the activity of DJ-1 could change the progress of the disease, says Dr. Nirit Lev, a researcher at Tel Aviv University's Sackler Faculty of Medicine and a movement disorders specialist at Rabin Medical Center. Working in collaboration with Profs. Dani Offen and Eldad Melamed, Dr. Lev has now developed a peptide which mimics DJ-1's normal function, thereby protecting dopamine- producing neurons. What's more, the peptide can be easily delivered by daily injections or absorbed into the skin through an adhesive patch.

Based on a short protein derived from DJ-1 itself, the peptide has been shown to freeze neurodegeneration in its tracks, reducing problems with mobility and leading to greater protection of neurons and higher dopamine levels in the brain. Dr. Lev says that this method, which has been published in a number of journals including the Journal of Neural Transmission, could be developed as a preventative therapy.

Guarding dopamine levels

As we age, we naturally lose dopamine-producing neurons. Parkinson's patients experience a rapid loss of these neurons from the onset of the disease, leading to much more drastic deficiencies in dopamine than the average person. Preserving dopamine-producing neurons can mean the difference between living life as a Parkinson's patient or aging normally, says Dr. Lev.

The researchers set out to develop a therapy based on the protective effects of DJ-1, using a short peptide based on the healthy version of DJ-1 itself as a vehicle. "We attached the DJ-1-related peptide to another peptide that would allow it to enter the cells, and be carried to the brain," explains Dr. Lev.

In pre-clinical trials, the treatment was tested on mice utilizing well-established toxic and genetic models for Parkinson's disease. From both a behavioral and biochemical standpoint, the mice that received the peptide treatment showed remarkable improvement. Symptoms such as mobility dysfunctions were reduced significantly, and researchers noted the preservation of dopamine-producing neurons and higher dopamine levels in the brain.

Preliminary tests indicate that the peptide is a viable treatment option. Though many peptides have a short life span and degrade quickly, this peptide does not. Additionally, it provides a safe treatment option because peptides are organic to the body itself.

Read more here:
Freezing Parkinson's in its tracks

Distraught Parkinson’s sufferer killed herself when driving licence was revoked

Posted on May 8, 2012 by Fredricko

Horse lover had become depressed after condition meant she could no longer ride Inquest told she could not accept that the things she liked were becoming more and more difficult Losing driving licence was the 'final straw'

By Phil Vinter

PUBLISHED: 15:23 EST, 7 May 2012 | UPDATED: 15:28 EST, 7 May 2012

A mum committed suicide on the day her driving licence was revoked because Parkinson's Disease symptoms had become too bad.

Karen Bottrill, 51, hung herself following the DVLA (the vehicle licencing agancy) at a spot where her beloved daughter used to play as a child.

An inquest heard that Mrs Bottrill had requested space after leaving her home at Larkhill, in Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire, following the news.

Crushing news: Salisbury Coroner's Court heard that Karen Bottrill hung herself after the DVLA deemed her unable to drive a car because of her debilitating Parkinson's symptoms

Yesterday her husband Gordon, 50, said the DVLAs decision to ban her from driving was the final straw for his wife, after losing the ability to continue her passion for riding horses.

Mr Bottrill said Karen - who was first diagnosed with the debilitating nerve condition in 2006 - could not accept that all of the things she liked were becoming more and more difficult.

See more here:
Distraught Parkinson's sufferer killed herself when driving licence was revoked

Vitamin K2: New hope for Parkinson’s patients?

Posted on May 11, 2012 by Fredricko

Public release date: 11-May-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Patrik Verstreken 32-497-422-165 VIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)

Neuroscientist Patrik Verstreken, associated with VIB and KU Leuven, succeeded in undoing the effect of one of the genetic defects that leads to Parkinson's using vitamin K2. His discovery gives hope to Parkinson's patients. This research was done in collaboration with colleagues from Northern Illinois University (US) and will be published this evening on the website of the authorative journal Science.

"It appears from our research that administering vitamin K2 could possibly help patients with Parkinson's. However, more work needs to be done to understand this better," says Patrik Verstreken.

Malfunctioning power plants are at the basis of Parkinson's.

If we looked at cells as small factories, then mitochondria would be the power plants responsible for supplying the energy for their operation. They generate this energy by transporting electrons. In Parkinson's patients, the activity of mitochondria and the transport of electrons have been disrupted, resulting in the mitochondria no longer producing sufficient energy for the cell. This has major consequences as the cells in certain parts of the brain will start dying off, disrupting communication between neurons. The results are the typical symptoms of Parkinson's: lack of movement (akinesia), tremors and muscle stiffness.

The exact cause of this neurodegenerative disease is not known. In recent years, however, scientists have been able to describe several genetic defects (mutations) found in Parkinson's patients, including the so-called PINK1 and Parkin mutations, which both lead to reduced mitochondrial activity. By studying these mutations, scientists hope to unravel the mechanisms underlying the disease process.

Paralyzed fruit flies

Fruit flies (Drosophila) are frequently used in lab experiments because of their short life spans and breeding cycles, among other things. Within two weeks of her emergence, every female is able to produce hundreds of offspring. By genetically modifying fruitflies, scientists can study the function of certain genes and proteins. Patrik Verstreken and his team used fruitflies with a genetic defect in PINK1 or Parkin that is similar to the one associated with Parkinson's. They found that the flies with a PINK1 or Parkin mutation lost their ability to fly.

Upon closer examination, they discovered that the mitochondria in these flies were defective, just as in Parkinson's patients. Because of this they generated less intracellular energy energy the insects needed to fly. When the flies were given vitamin K2, the energy production in their mitochondria was restored and the insects' ability to fly improved. The researchers were also able to determine that the energy production was restored because the vitamin K2 had improved electron transport in the mitochondria. This in turn led to improved energy production.

Michael J. Fox Foundation grant to Dr. Samuel Young will provide Parkinson’s drug development tools

Posted on May 3, 2012 by Fredricko

Public release date: 3-May-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Dennis Tartaglia dtartaglia@tartagliacommunications.com 732-545-1848 Tartaglia Communications

Samuel M. Young, Jr., PhD, research group leader at the new Max Planck Florida Institute (MPFI), has received his first grant from The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research (MJFF). The grant will enable Dr. Young and colleagues to develop a technology that will help scientists working in drug development to research potential treatments that target LRRK2, a Parkinson's-related gene. Globally, five million people have Parkinson's disease.

"We are excited about receiving The Michael J. Fox Foundation grant, as these grants are competitive and MJFF is the world's largest private funder of Parkinson's research," said Dr. Young, who directs MPFI's Molecular Mechanisms of Synaptic Function research group. "We believe that the tools we develop will prove important in advancing Parkinson's research."

Translational researchers working in Parkinson's disease have been hindered in studying the function of the LRRK2 gene in pre-clinical models of Parkinson's. This has been due to difficulty in expressing this gene with commonly used neuroscience research tools known as recombinant viral vectors. Dr. Young will develop tools that will allow researchers to get around this problem.

Mutations in the gene for leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are among the most common genetic links to Parkinson's disease yet discovered. LRRK2 has garnered much excitement among drug makers due to its reported protein kinase activity, which appears to be enhanced by Parkinson's disease-causing mutations.

"We are delighted that The Michael J. Fox Foundation has awarded Dr. Young with a grant to lead this critical project," said David Fitzpatrick, PhD, CEO and Scientific Director of MPFI. "This grant recognizes Dr. Young's specialized expertise, as well as our Institute's leadership role in neural circuit research."

Recombinant viral vectors are used by scientists to deliver genetic material into cells. Viruses have evolved specialized molecular mechanisms to efficiently transport their genomes inside the cells they infect. To create the vector, viruses are bioengineered to strip their viral genome or most of their viral genome, which renders them harmless. This enables them to carry transgene expression cassettes to express a gene of interest. The transgene expression cassette is a fragment of DNA that carries the regulatory elements necessary for cells to express specific genes within a cell or organism.

As the principal investigator of the project, Dr. Young will work with collaborators at other institutions to generate the optimal expression cassette to express LRRK2.

Dr. Young has specialized training that makes him the ideal investigator for this project. After training in virology and in recombinant viral vectors during his doctoral studies, Dr. Young switched fields and became a post-doctoral neuroscience researcher, learning electrophysiology techniques. He carried out a second post-doctoral position, gaining further experience with advanced electrophysiological techniques as well as calcium imaging. Using this unique training, which combines techniques in molecular, electrophysiological and biophysical methods, Dr. Young and his group at MPFI study the molecular mechanisms regulating synaptic function. Understanding these mechanisms is critical because the major causes of brain diseases are due to synaptic dysfunction.

See more here:
Michael J. Fox Foundation grant to Dr. Samuel Young will provide Parkinson's drug development tools

Soon, therapy to freeze Parkinson’s in its tracks

Posted on May 3, 2012 by Fredricko

Washington, May 3 : Researchers are developing a preventive therapy to halt symptoms in Parkinson's patients.

Parkinson's disease is characterized by a gradual loss of neurons that produce dopamine. Mutations in the gene known as DJ-1 lead to accelerated loss of dopaminergic neurons and result in the onset of Parkinson's symptoms at a young age.

The ability to modify the activity of DJ-1 could change the progress of the disease, said Dr. Nirit Lev, a researcher at Tel Aviv University's Sackler Faculty of Medicine and a movement disorders specialist at Rabin Medical Center.

Working in collaboration with Profs. Dani Offen and Eldad Melamed, Dr. Lev has now developed a peptide which mimics DJ-1's normal function, thereby protecting dopamine- producing neurons. What's more, the peptide can be easily delivered by daily injections or absorbed into the skin through an adhesive patch.

Dr. Lev said that this method could be developed as a preventative therapy.

Preserving dopamine-producing neurons can mean the difference between living life as a Parkinson's patient or aging normally, said Dr. Lev.

The researchers set out to develop a therapy based on the protective effects of DJ-1, using a short peptide based on the healthy version of DJ-1 itself as a vehicle.

'We attached the DJ-1-related peptide to another peptide that would allow it to enter the cells, and be carried to the brain,' explained Dr. Lev.

Continue reading here:
Soon, therapy to freeze Parkinson's in its tracks

18th Annual Parkinson’s Unity Walk Raises More Than $1.5 Million in Support of Parkinson’s Research

Posted on May 3, 2012 by Fredricko

KINGSTON, N.J., May 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --The 18th Annual Parkinson's Unity Walk (PUW), held on Saturday, April 28, 2012 in New York City's Central Park, raised more than $1.5 million thus far and united 10,000 walkers, The Parkinson Alliance announced today.

The event, kicked-off by Michael J. Fox, drew a record number of 527 registered teams participating in the PUW's 18 year history to help raise funds for Parkinson's disease (PD) research. The funds raised are distributed evenly among the nation's seven leading Parkinson's foundations, and the PUW will continue to accept contributions for the 2012 event through May 28, 2012.

A number of leading advocates and representatives from the Parkinson's community spoke at the PUW, including Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, 14th CD; Michael Jones, Divisional VP & General Manager, Abbott; May May Ali, Writer and Comedian; and Martin Tuchman, Chairman of the Parkinson's Unity Walk.

"Collaboration and sharing two words that are extremely important to the success of this community," said Carol Walton, Chief Executive Officer of The Parkinson Alliance. "People living with Parkinson's, researchers, healthcare professionals, volunteers and foundations all working together to assure that one day a year, the most comprehensive day of community and education takes place for people with Parkinson's and their families."

The PUW is the largest awareness and fundraising event for PD research in the United States.

"The Parkinson's Unity Walk is important, not only for members of the Parkinson's community but also for the field of Parkinson's disease research," said Todd Sherer, Chief Executive Officer of the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. "It brings together so many of us who are deeply invested in finding a cure, and the funds raised help speed progress for patients today. The Michael J. Fox Foundation is grateful to be a part of this inspiring event."

For Walk participants, the PUW represented much more than a one-day event. It was an opportunity for patients, caregivers and organizations to all come together in support of the community.

"Year after year, I'm humbled by the consistent support from my friends, family and colleagues," said Jim McNasby, Team Captain of top fundraising team, Team McMoss, and PUW Board Member. "Their generosity is both extraordinary and impactful because all of the donations go directly to research. And when I hear about the research especially some of the genetic research supported by the Walk it gives me hope for the future. Hope keeps me going."

In addition to individual and team fundraising efforts, Abbott, a leading global health care company and premier sponsor of the PUW, helped raise an additional $30,000, which will be donated directly to the PUW in support of research.

Additional sponsors included Boehringer Ingelheim, Teva CNS, Chelsea Therapeutics, LSVT Global, Medtronic, Novartis, and UCB.

Continued here:
18th Annual Parkinson's Unity Walk Raises More Than $1.5 Million in Support of Parkinson's Research

Once-Marginalized Parkinson’s Disease Theory May Be Valid

Posted on May 3, 2012 by Fredricko

Editor's Choice Main Category: Parkinson's Disease Article Date: 02 May 2012 - 11:00 PDT

email to a friend printer friendly opinions

Current Article Ratings:

4.5 (2 votes)

By using powerful computer tools and laboratory tests, the scientists managed to obtain a step-by-step explanation of how a "protein-run-amok" aggregates within the membranes of neurons, puncturing them and causing Parkinson's disease symptoms. The process describes how -synuclein (a-syn) can turn against us, especially as we get older. The results of the model demonstrate how -syn monomers penetrate cell membranes and how they become coiled and aggregate within nanoseconds into dangerous ring structures that are harmful for neurons.

Lead researcher Igor Tsigelny, a research scientist at the San Diego Supercomputer Center and Department of Neurosciences at UC San Diego, declared:

Numerous cases of familial Parkinson's disease are caused by a limited number of protein mutations, the most toxic of which is A53T. Tsigelny's team demonstrated that the mutant form of -syn both penetrates neuronal membranes substantially faster compared with a normal -syn, and that the mutant protein also accelerates ring formation.

Tsigelny explained:

The researchers discovered that their modeling results also proved consistent with electron microscopic images of neurons in Parkinson's disease patients that have shown damaged neurons are riddled with ring structures.

The researchers immediately turned to search for drug candidates that can inhibit ring formation in neuron membranes. The highly complex modeling consists of various sophisticated scientific realms, which intersect between chemistry, physics, and statistical probabilities. A wide spectrum of interacting forces within this realm cause circumstances comparable to an earthquake, in which the a-syn proteins bump and tremble, coil and uncoil and join up in pairs or larger groups.

The rest is here:
Once-Marginalized Parkinson's Disease Theory May Be Valid

Freezing Parkinson’s in its tracks: Researcher developing therapy to halt symptoms in Parkinson’s patients

Posted on May 3, 2012 by Fredricko

ScienceDaily (May 2, 2012) Parkinson's disease, a disorder which affects movement and cognition, affects over a million Americans, including actor Michael J. Fox, who first brought it to the attention of many TV-watching Americans. It's characterized by a gradual loss of neurons that produce dopamine. Mutations in the gene known as DJ-1 lead to accelerated loss of dopaminergic neurons and result in the onset of Parkinson's symptoms at a young age.

The ability to modify the activity of DJ-1 could change the progress of the disease, says Dr. Nirit Lev, a researcher at Tel Aviv University's Sackler Faculty of Medicine and a movement disorders specialist at Rabin Medical Center. Working in collaboration with Profs. Dani Offen and Eldad Melamed, Dr. Lev has now developed a peptide which mimics DJ-1's normal function, thereby protecting dopamine-producing neurons. What's more, the peptide can be easily delivered by daily injections or absorbed into the skin through an adhesive patch.

Guarding dopamine levels

Filling an urgent need

According to Dr. Lev, this peptide could fill a gap in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. "Current treatments are lacking because they can only address symptoms -- there is nothing that can change or halt the disease," she says. "Until now, we have lacked tools for neuroprotection."

See the article here:
Freezing Parkinson's in its tracks: Researcher developing therapy to halt symptoms in Parkinson's patients

Research and Markets: Parkinson’s Disease Therapeutics – Parkinson’s Disease (PD) Therapeutics Market is Forecast to …

Posted on April 26, 2012 by Fredricko

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/c9kszn/parkinsons_diseas) has announced the addition of GlobalData 's new report "Parkinson's Disease Therapeutics - Global Drug Forecasts and Treatment Analysis to 2020" to their offering.

Parkinson's Disease (PD) Therapeutics Market is Forecast to Show Slow Growth to 2020

In 2011, the global Parkinson's Disease (PD) therapeutics market, which includes the key markets of the US, Japan, Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Brazil, China, India and Russia was estimated to be worth $2,992m. During the period 2002-2011, the global PD therapeutics market grew at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.8%. GlobalData analysis shows that the market size was primarily driven by two key parameters: the increase in PD prevalence due to the increase in the aging population in the 11 key markets and the increasing cost of therapy.

In 2011, the market registered a decline in the market valuations due to the entry of generics for Mirapex (pramipexole) and higher preference for generic ropinirole. The market declined from $3,499m in 2010 to $2,992m in 2011. The US was leading PD therapeutics market, with an estimated value of $1,046m in 2011 and a market share of 35%. Japan was the second biggest market, with an estimated value of $542m and an 18.1% market share, followed by Germany with a market share of 15.6%.

The global PD therapeutics market is primarily served by levodopa, dopamine agonists, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAO-BI) and Catechol-O-Methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors. The market is dominated by branded products such as Boehringer Ingelheim's Mirapex/Mirapexin / Sifrol / Mirapex ER / Mirapexin ER (pramipexole), GlaxoSmithKline's (GSK) Requip/Requip XL (ropinirole), Orion / Novartis' Stalevo/Comtan (carbidopa/levodopa/entacapone) and Teva/Lundbeck's Azilect/Agilect (rasagiline). In addition, a large number of generics are also available in this market.

Key Topics Covered:

1 List of Tables and Figures

2 Parkinson's Disease Therapeutics - Disease Overview

3 Parkinson's Disease Therapeutics - Market Characterization

Read the rest here:
Research and Markets: Parkinson's Disease Therapeutics - Parkinson's Disease (PD) Therapeutics Market is Forecast to ...

Sonia Rykiel reveals Parkinson’s disease

Posted on April 26, 2012 by Fredricko

Tried to pretend nothing was wrong ... Sonia Rykiel.

Sonia Rykiel has revealed she has Parkinson's disease, after finding it impossible to keep secret any longer.

The French fashion designer's health has been called into question over recent months, with claims she has been looking frail.

She made the announcement about her health in a new book called N'oubliez pas que je joue (Don't forget it's a game). The tome is co-written by Judith Perrignon and in it Rykiel talks about the disease.

Advertisement: Story continues below

"Unfashion" ... Malin Akerman wears a Sonia Rykiel dress from the designer's autumn 2011 collection.

"I don't want to show my pain. I resisted, I hesitated, I tried to be invisible, to pretend that nothing was wrong. It's impossible, it's not like me," she says in the book.

The 81-year-old designer discovered she had Parkinson's 15 years ago. She has opened up about it now because she can no longer disguise the signs, such as shaking.

The star has been using a cane for a while now, although those she works with suggested she was never pictured with it.

Rykiel discussed her love of fashion in the latest edition of French Elle. She thinks women get too caught up in trends, when really they need to think about what suits their figures when getting dressed.

View original post here:
Sonia Rykiel reveals Parkinson's disease

Parkinson’s is ‘a daily struggle’

Posted on April 26, 2012 by Fredricko

Thursday, Apr 26 2012, 4:34 pm

What is Parkinsons disease?

According to the Parkinsons Disease Foundation, Parkinsons is a chronic and progressive movement disorder that involves the malfunction and death of vital nerve cells in the brain, called neurons. Major symptoms are tremor, rigidity, slowness and lack of balance. Some of the other symptoms are depression, emotional changes, pain, memory loss, problems swallowing and chewing, digestive issues, sleep disturbances, fatigue and weight loss.

More information

The monthly Parkinsons Support Group meets at the Neal Senior Center, 100 T.R. Harris Drive, Shelby, at 1:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month. Contact Doug Murphy at 704-487-8822 and dmurphy2@carolina.rr.com.

The quarterly Parkinsons Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. May 22 at the Life Enrichment Center, 110 Life Enrichment Blvd., Shelby. The program will be about the importance of exercise. For more information, call 704-484-0405.

Online

Parkinsons Disease Foundation: http://www.pdf.org/, 1-800-457-6676

Parkinson Association of the Carolinas: http://www.parkinsonassociation.org, 1-866-903-7275

Mention Parkinsons and most people think of tremors, said Doug Murphy, who was diagnosed with the disease in 2009.

Continued here:
Parkinson's is 'a daily struggle'

Chelsea Therapeutics is a Proud Sponsor of the Parkinson’s Unity Walk

Posted on April 26, 2012 by Fredricko

CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 25, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Chelsea Therapeutics International, Ltd. (CHTP - News) announced today it is proud to serve as a platinum corporate sponsor of the Parkinson's Unity Walk in New York City on April 28, 2012. In addition to sponsoring the walk, Chelsea employees will also participate in the event and raise funds for Parkinson's research.

"As a sponsor of the Parkinson's Unity Walk, Chelsea is helping to fund potentially life-saving research for this devastating disease," commented Dr. Simon Pedder, president and CEO of Chelsea Therapeutics. "Chelsea is committed to helping those with a wide range of autonomic conditions, including Parkinson's disease and Neurogenic OH. We are thrilled to be raising money to support seven of the nation's largest Parkinson's organizations and their premier fundraising event."

The Parkinson's Unity Walk (PUW), a grassroots organization, began in 1994 through the dedicated efforts of patients, families, support groups, and friends who were affected by Parkinson's disease. Their main goal was to raise awareness and funds for research to find a cure for Parkinson's. The Parkinson's Unity Walk directs donated funds to increase research to find a cure. 100% of all donations made to the Parkinson's Unity Walk are distributed among the major U.S. Parkinson's disease foundations for Parkinson's disease research including the American Parkinson Disease Association, the National Parkinson Foundation, the Parkinson's Action Network, the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, The Parkinson Alliance and The Parkinson's Institute and Clinical Center. To join a team, make a donation or learn more about the Parkinson's Unity Walk, please visit http://www.unitywalk.org.

About Chelsea Therapeutics

Chelsea Therapeutics (CHTP - News) is a biopharmaceutical development company that acquires and develops innovative products for the treatment of a variety of human diseases, including central nervous system, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and other inflammatory diseases. Founded in 2004 around its library of unique anti-inflammatory and autoimmune technology, Chelsea has further expanded its product development portfolio with early- and late-stage candidates that seek to leverage the company's development expertise and accelerate the company's drug commercialization efforts. For more information about the company, visit http://www.chelseatherapeutics.com.

Follow this link:
Chelsea Therapeutics is a Proud Sponsor of the Parkinson's Unity Walk

Sanofi and Michael J. Fox Foundation Collaborate on Potential New Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease

Posted on April 20, 2012 by Fredricko

- Fox Foundation to sponsor a clinical trial to study Sanofi compound -

PARIS , France , April 19, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Sanofi (EURONEXT: BSAC - News) (NYSE: SNY - News) announced today that it has entered into a collaboration with the Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) to conduct a clinical trial to assess the safety and tolerability of AVE 8112, a Sanofi PDE4 inhibitor - phosphodiesterase type 4 inhibitor - in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD).

"AVE8112 has shown promising pro-cognitive activity in preclinical models that could be of interest to the under-addressed cognitive aspects of Parkinson's disease, an area of unmet need where a new treatment could make a tangible difference in patients' lives," said Todd Sherer , Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of MJFF. "Groundbreaking collaborations with like-minded partners such as Sanofi are a hallmark of the Fox Foundation's approach and help us speed scientific advances with potential to improve the treatment of Parkinson's for patients today and in the future."

Under the terms of the collaboration, MJFF will sponsor a phase I b clinical trial to assess the safety and tolerability of AVE8112 in patients with Parkinson's disease. All data and results generated by the clinical trial will be owned by MJFF and shared with Sanofi. Further development plans will be based upon the results of the study.

"The Michael J. Fox Foundation has been a driving force in discovering and developing improved therapies for those living with Parkinson's disease. Through this research collaboration, together we will be able to study Sanofi's pharmaceutical compound for a possible new treatment for PD patients around the world," said Dr. Elias Zerhouni , President, Global R&D, Sanofi. "We hope to continue to develop relationships with private foundations like the Michael J. Fox Foundation to pool our resources and maximize the potential of our drug portfolio to address unmet medical needs."

The clinical trial will be conducted at clinical sites in the United States in Baltimore , MD, and Los Angeles , CA. Patient enrollment in the study is expected to begin later this year.

***

About Parkinson's Disease Over one million people in the US and an estimated 5 million people globally suffer from Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder caused by the diminished production of dopamine, a key neurotransmitter, resulting in progressive impairment of motor function including tremors, rigidity and difficulty in moving. Another symptom of PD is cognitive dysfunction, such as difficulty planning, sequencing, initiating and sustaining behavior toward a goal. Estimates vary but some studies suggest a cognitive deficit may occur in up to 80% of people with Parkinson's. While there is a drug approved for the treatment of dementia in PD, there are currently no treatments available for patients who experience less severe cognitive impairments.

About Sanofi Sanofi, a global and diversified healthcare leader, discovers, develops and distributes therapeutic solutions focused on patients' needs. Sanofi has core strengths in the field of healthcare with seven growth platforms: diabetes solutions, human vaccines, innovative drugs, consumer healthcare, emerging markets, animal health and the new Genzyme. Sanofi is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: BSAC - News) and in New York (NYSE: SNY - News).

About The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research As the world's largest private funder of Parkinson's research, The Michael J. Fox Foundation is dedicated to accelerating a cure for Parkinson's disease and improved therapies for those living with the condition today. The Foundation pursues its goals through an aggressively funded, highly targeted research program coupled with active global engagement of scientists, Parkinson's patients, business leaders, clinical trial participants, donors and volunteers. In addition to funding more than $285 million in research to date, the Foundation has fundamentally altered the trajectory of progress toward a cure. Operating at the hub of worldwide Parkinson's research, the Foundation forges groundbreaking collaborations with industry leaders, academic scientists and government research funders; increases the flow of participants into Parkinson's disease clinical trials with its online tool, Fox Trial Finder; promotes Parkinson's awareness through high-profile advocacy, events and outreach; and coordinates the grassroots involvement of thousands of Team Fox members around the world. Now through December 31, 2012 , all new and increased giving to The Michael J. Fox Foundation, as well as gifts from donors who have not given since 2009 or earlier, will be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis with the $50-million Brin Wojcicki Challenge, launched by Sergey Brin and Anne Wojcicki .

Want to learn more about Parkinson’s Disease?

Posted on April 20, 2012 by Fredricko

Readmore: Local, News, Parkinson's Disease, Want to Learn more about Parkinson's Disease?, Parkinsons Conference, Crown Reef Resort, Parkinson's Conference at Crown Reef Resort

Parkinson's Disease affects nearly one million people in the United States.

A man who has the disorder and his mother put on a conference at the Crown Reef Resort Thursday to teach people about the disease.

Parkinson's involves the malfunction or death of nerve cells in the brain that produce a chemical that sends messages to part of the brain that controls movement.

The cause of Parkinson's in unknown and there is no cure. But there are treatment options like medication and surgery to manage symptoms.

"There is a lot of hope out there. There's a lot of new medications coming through the pipeline that will be helpful. We also encourage people to live their lives to the fullest everyday," says Karlin Schroeder with the Parkinsons Disease Foundation.

Clickhereto read more about Parkinson's Disease.

View original post here:
Want to learn more about Parkinson's Disease?

Huntsville runner with Parkinson’s disease to run in marathon

Posted on April 26, 2012 by Fredricko

NASHVILLE, Tennessee -- Huntsville resident Jennifer Neathery will be hitting the streets of downtown Nashville Saturday for a 26.2 mile challenge to raise money and awareness about a disease she's battled for seven year's, Parkinson's.

In an effort to promote Parkinson's Awareness Month in the community, Neathery will be participating in the St. Jude Country Music Marathon to raise money for the Parkinson's Disease Foundation. She says her motivation for embarking on the 26.2-mile challenge is to not only generate awareness, but to show that "no matter what your circumstances are, you can do anything you can your mind to."

Neathery, an avid runner, was diagnosed with young onset Parkinson's disease seven years ago at 32. Despite her disease's hardships, Neathery decided to partake in the run to challenger herself and prove to others that Parkinson's doesn't mean "giving up being active and living a good life."

The runner's goal is to raise $500 as she runs in the Nashville marathon on Saturday. She will be one of more than 35,000 participants in the race, which is a part of the Rock 'n' Roll marathon series.

Robin Elliott, the executive director for the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, says champions such as Neathery remind her of what the organization does and why.

"Because Parkinson's affects nearly 1 million Americans and we need to find a cure," he said. "We applaud her efforts to not only help PDF to fund the most promising research, but also to raise awareness in her community and around the U.S. about the impact of the disease."

To learn more about Neathery's fundraising efforts or to donate, contact the Parkinson's Disease Foundation by calling 800-457-6676, visit pdf.org or email info@pdf.org.

See the original post:
Huntsville runner with Parkinson's disease to run in marathon

Clinical Trial at Evergreen Healthcare Shows Intestinal Gel Reduces Symptoms of Advanced Parkinson’s Disease

Posted on April 20, 2012 by Fredricko

KIRKLAND, Wash., April 20, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- A recent clinical trial conducted at Evergreen Healthcare shows that a new form of a common drug used to treat Parkinson's Disease greatly improves the quality of life for patients and reduces the affects of symptoms such as tremors, slowness, stiffness and difficulty walking.

Evergreen was the only site in the Pacific Northwest to hold the trial, which was led by Dr. C. Warren Olanow, a Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology and Professor of Neurology and Neuroscience at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York.

The trial tested standard oral dosages of a Parkinson's drug against the newer levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG) and found that the intestinal treatments gave patients an average of two extra hours per day of reduced symptoms and improved movement.

"We have been involved in the trials since 2008," said Dr. Alida Griffith, principal investigator for the trial at Evergreen's Booth Gardner Parkinson's Care Center. "Levodopa is the 'gold standard' treatment for Parkinson's disease."

The intestinal gel contains levodopa and carbidopa, two drugs commonly prescribed for Parkinson's, and is infused through a portable pump connected to a tube implanted in the intestine.

In the three-month, double-blind trial, 71 participants were randomized to receive either the continuous infusion of LCIG and dummy pills or a dummy intestinal gel and pills that contained levodopa and carbidopa. At the start of the study, the average person had Parkinson's disease for about 11 years and experienced 6.6 hours of symptomatic behavior per day. A total of 93 percent of participants completed the study.

The results of the study are set to be presented as part of the Emerging Science program (formerly known as Late-Breaking Science) at the American Academy of Neurology's 64th Annual Meeting in New Orleans from April 21 to April 28, 2012.

The study was supported by Abbott.

Learn more about Parkinson's disease at http://www.aan.com/patients.

To learn more about the Evergreen Neuroscience Institute, visit http://www.evergreenhealthcare.org/parkinsons or call the Evergreen Healthline 425.899.3000.

Visit link:
Clinical Trial at Evergreen Healthcare Shows Intestinal Gel Reduces Symptoms of Advanced Parkinson's Disease

Select Page ::