Helena Shelton

Today and Tomorrow of Parkinson's Disease Helena Shelton

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that significantly affects the motor system. A set of symptoms known as Parkinsonism, including tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia and postural instability are commonly exhibited. Non-motor symptoms such as behavioral and thinking problems also occur in individuals with this disease. Parkinson's disease is a prevalent disorder, affecting nearly 1% of the world's population above the age of 60. Several theories pertaining to the cause of PD suggest the death of dopamine-producing neurons in the central nervous system, due to oxidative stress. Such oxidative stress is attributed to metabolism and the production and accumulation of free radicals. Drugs like levodopa and dopamine agonists can moderate the symptoms of the disease. However, these medications become ineffective when multiple dopamine-producing cells have been destroyed. Research is being undertaken to investigate the link between dietary patterns and Parkinson's. The potential of stem cell transplantation, gene therapy and neuroprotective agents in the management of PD is also being explored. This book unravels the recent studies in Parkinson's disease. It brings forth the fundamental as well as modern approaches of its management. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of this disease.