PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease

Introduction

Parkinson's disease (PD), also called paralysis agitans or idiopathic Parkinsonism, is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder that leads eventually to a progressive disability, produced as a result of the destruction, for reasons still unknown, the pigmented neurons of the substantia nigra. Often classified as a movement disorder, Parkinson's disease also triggers alterations in cognitive function in the expression of emotion and autonomic function. The most important consequence of this neuronal loss is a marked decrease in cerebral availability of dopamine, the main substance synthesized by these neurons, dysfunction originating in the regulation of key brain structures involved in movement control.

The Four Most Significant Concepts from the Video

It was recently discovered the existence of genetic abnormalities in families in which the majority of its members were affected and in familial cases of Parkinson's disease early presentation (age of onset below 40 years).

There are hopes that fetal cells can repair Parkinson's brain damage.

Another is that cell from embryos hold new possibilities for cure, but a debate erupts over the ethics and morality of using them.

Research indicates that regular exercise may help delay or slow down the progression of Parkinson's (Fuchs, 2009).

Two Challenges in Finding a Cure

There is a belief that embryonic cells can repair the Parkinson's brain damage, but there is a long debate going on the use of embryonic cells since it is considered unethical.

The politics has restrict the research on embryonic cells, especially the period of Bush government put restrictions on it.

Two Aspects of the Stem Cell Controversy

The use of fetal and embryonic stem cells for research and treatment is the main source of controversy and emotion. The harvesting of adult stem cells has a relatively low risk for the donor and does not require the destruction of an embryo or fetus: it is simply ...