Peptide could stop Parkinson'€™s disease in its tracks

Tel Aviv University researchers have developed a peptide which mimics the normal function of DJ-1, a gene that can carry mutations known to lead to accelerated loss of dopaminergic neurons and result in the onset of Parkinson’s disease symptoms at a young age. The new peptide therefore has the potential to protect dopamine-protecting neurons. It was based on a protein derived from DJ-1 itself and has been shown to halt neurodegeneration, reducing problems with mobility. In Parkinson’s patients, who experience a rapid loss of dopamine-protecting neurons, their preservation can mean the difference between living life as a Parkinson's patient or aging normally. "Current treatments are lacking because they can only address symptoms -- there is nothing that can change or halt the disease," Nirit Lev, who led development of the peptide, said. "Until now, we have lacked tools for neuroprotection."