Researchers create Parkinson’s-resistant stem cells

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Author: Simge Eva DoganPublished: 2 January 2019

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Scientists at the University of Edinburgh, UK, have created stem cells that they say are resistant to developing Parkinson’s.

The study – published in science journal ‘European Journal of Neuroscience’ – used gene editing techniques to remove the alpha-synuclein protein from the stem cells. To test the resistance of the new stem cells, researchers treated both edited and unedited stem cells with a chemical agent that induced Lewy bodies – abnormal proteins that lead to neurodegeneration.

The results showed that the gene-edited cells did not develop signs of Parkinson’s, whereas the unedited cells did.

Dr Tilo Kunath – who led the study – said: “We know that Parkinson’s disease spreads from neuron-neuron, invading healthy cells. This could essentially put a shelf life on the potential of cell replacement therapy. Our exciting discovery has the potential to considerably improve these emerging treatments.”

To read more on this topic click here.

For more information on Parkinson’s and stem cell therapy please visit Parkinson’s Europe website.

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Researchers create Parkinson’s-resistant stem cells

News

Author: Simge Eva DoganPublished: 2 January 2019

Prep: Cook: Serves:

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“Fear prevents people from living a productive life”

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Study finds just six minutes of daily exercise might delay onset of Parkinson’s disease

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Long-term exposure to air pollution could impact Parkinson’s disease mortality risk

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Researchers create Parkinson’s-resistant stem cells

News

Author: Simge Eva DoganPublished: 2 January 2019

Last Month

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Share this story

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Interviews

“Fear prevents people from living a productive life”

Global update

Watch Parkinson’s disease symptoms interpreted as a modern dance

Advances

Could a wearable device help ease Parkinson’s disease symptoms?

Study finds just six minutes of daily exercise might delay onset of Parkinson’s disease

Machine learning may help predict risk of freezing of gait in Parkinson’s disease

Long-term exposure to air pollution could impact Parkinson’s disease mortality risk

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