A groundbreaking study published in Science Signaling has discovered that silencing a single overactive enzyme in the brain can reverse early damage caused by a Parkinson’s-related mutation in mice. The treatment, which involves inhibiting the LRRK2 enzyme, restored brain cells’ ability to communicate and regrew tiny cellular “antennae,” leading to a partial reversal of symptoms.
The study found that when the LRRK2 enzyme becomes too active, it disrupts how brain cells are structured and how they communicate. This breakdown affects dopamine-producing neurons and their ability to connect with the striatum, a brain region deeply involved in movement, motivation, and decision-making.
Researchers discovered that inhibiting the LRRK2 enzyme using the MLi-2 LRRK2 kinase inhibitor can stabilize the progression of symptoms if patients are identified early enough. The treatment has been shown to restore communication between dopamine neurons and the striatum, increase neuroprotective factors, and even lead to a recovery in dopamine nerve endings.
The study’s findings suggest that inhibiting the LRRK2 enzyme could be a game-changer for Parkinson’s disease treatment. Early detection of the genetic mutation is key to success, as symptoms often begin 15 years before noticeable tremors. The researchers hope that this approach will pave the way for clinical trials and potentially lead to a treatment available within 20 years.
While there are multiple LRRK2 inhibitor clinical trials underway, the study’s results offer new hope for patients with Parkinson’s disease. As one of the study’s authors noted, “These findings suggest that it might be possible to improve, not just stabilize, the condition of patients with Parkinson’s disease.”
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/astounding-results-blocking-one-enzyme-brings-parkinsons-damaged-cells-back-to-life