Much of the research surrounding Parkinson’s disease is focused on preventing or slowing the progression of the disease. Scientists are attempting to find evidence of biochemical abnormalities (biomarkers) that are common in patients with Parkinson’s disease. In the future, tests may be developed to screen people for these biomarkers and predict the occurrence of Parkinson’s disease. The identification of biomarkers may also be useful for developing new treatment or prevention methods.

Research is also being conducted on the importance of genes in the development of Parkinson’s disease. Scientists have identified several genes that are related to Parkinson’s disease. However, there are believed to be many more. It is hoped that by understanding more about the role that genes play in the development of Parkinson’s disease, scientists may be able to better prevent the disease.

Scientists are also continuing to explore new techniques of treating Parkinson’s disease. For example, fetal substantia nigra cells (which produce and release dopamine) have been transplanted into hundreds of patients with Parkinson’s disease. To date, results have been mixed. Younger patients tend to fare better than older patients, and side effects have been significant for some patients, including the development of intractable dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements). Additionally, cells from tissue at the back of the eye (called retinal pigment epithelial cells), which also produce dopamine, have also been used in transplants. This procedure shows promise.

Stem cell therapy has also been studied in relation to Parkinson’s disease. Stem cells differ from others in the body because they create cells with specific purposes. For example, some stem cells are cardiac stem cells and will only make heart muscle cells. Other stem cells create brain tissue cells or lung tissue cells. Some types of stem cells, called embryonic stem cells, may be used to create any type of cell. Scientists are researching whether embryonic stem cells may be used to create dopamine-producing cells.

Treatment techniques considered to be highly experimental include gene therapy (the transplantation of genetically altered genes to replace defective genes) and delivery of growth factor (a substance that encourages the growth of cells) to certain areas of the brain.

Several new drug treatments that aim to increase dopamine levels in the brain are undergoing clinical trials for use by patients with Parkinson’s disease. Testing is also under way to discover whether certain drugs have neuroprotective qualities and may be able to slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, scientists are researching whether supplements such as vitamin B12 might be helpful for patients with Parkinson’s disease.