With current or previous funding from The Michael J. Fox Foundation, several drugs are now in clinical trials, with volunteers testing the potential of these drugs to slow or stop Parkinson’s disease progression or to ease symptoms.
None of these therapies would be possible without the support of generous donors and research participants. Here we outline where MJFF-backed medications are in the drug development pipeline and what they aim to do.
To find recruiting studies in your area:
These therapies aim to prevent, slow or halt the overall progression of Parkinson's disease (PD). They target different proteins and pathways believed to play a role in the disease.
Mutations in the GBA gene are associated with Parkinson’s disease and are linked to certain cellular dysfunction.
Mutations in the LRRK2 gene are associated with Parkinson’s disease and linked to greater activity of the LRRK2 protein.
Tremor, stiffness and slowness of movement affect mobility. Levodopa can help, but it does not treat all symptoms, can feel less effective with time and may bring side effects such as dyskinesia with long-term use.
Targeting other brain chemicals with add-on therapies may help control motor fluctuations associated with levodopa use.
With surgery, a selected gene is delivered to the brain to increase production of deficient protein.
Gait and Balance
Researchers are increasingly recognizing the impact of non-motor symptoms on quality of life.
Mood changes such as anxiety and depression are symptoms of Parkinson's.