2023-08-20 07:30:00
Parkinson’s Disease Research Advances at Leipzig University Hospital
Leipzig, Germany – Parkinson’s disease, one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases worldwide, is on the rise in Germany. With an estimated 400,000 people affected, it now ranks second after Alzheimer’s disease, according to the German Parkinson Society. Trembling hands, stiff muscles, and the absence of arm swinging while running are some of the telltale signs of the disease. However, there is hope for a better future.
The aim of Parkinson’s research is to ultimately stop or even cure the disease. While this goal may seem ambitious, current medical advancements have made it possible to improve the symptoms through medication and brain pacemaker therapies. At Leipzig University Hospital (UKL), Prof. Joseph Classen, the director of the clinic and polyclinic for neurology, is leading research into the possibilities of non-invasive brain stimulation to alleviate the debilitating symptoms.
According to Prof. Classen, understanding the disease is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. Recent research breakthroughs have shed light on how certain proteins clump together in the nerve cells of Parkinson’s patients, particularly in the brainstem area responsible for dopamine release and movement control. Although the cause is still unknown, gene mutations are believed to play a role in some cases. Excitingly, these clumps can now be detected early on in cerebrospinal fluid or blood, providing researchers like Prof. Classen with more certainty in their diagnosis and the opportunity to explore new therapeutic approaches even before the onset of motor impairments.
“Until now, there hasn’t been a causal treatment for Parkinson’s disease. However, many scientists are working to prevent the disease from developing in the future,” said Prof. Classen. While a cure remains elusive, alleviating the symptoms is a significant step forward. The role of medications and individualized movement training in managing the disease is paramount. Additionally, researchers are exploring whether non-invasive brain stimulation can enhance the movement disorders typical of Parkinson’s without the need for surgery.
To further educate the public on these important topics, Prof. Joseph Classen will be giving a lecture titled “Parkinson – Understand and Treat” at Leipzig University Hospital on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. The lecture will take place at the Lecture Hall in Building 1, Liebigstraße 14, Leipzig. Interested individuals are welcome to attend, and prior registration is not required.
For more information, visit the Leipzig University Hospital website at www.uniklinikum-leipzig.de. Parkinson’s disease may be prevalent, but through advancements in research and understanding, there is hope for a brighter future for all those affected.]
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