Ageing, Alzheimer's, MS and Parkinson's - Parkinson's

Question 1

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Answer 1

A neurodegenerative disorder marked by dopamine neuron loss in the substantia nigra.

Question 2

What are hallmark symptoms of Parkinson’s?

Answer 2

Tremor, muscle rigidity, shuffling gait, bradykinesia, constipation, and loss of smell.

Question 3

What brain regions are involved in Parkinson’s?

Answer 3

Substantia nigra and striatum.

Question 4

What are key risk factors for Parkinson’s?

Answer 4

Age, genetics, brain injury, toxins, pesticides, heavy metals, poor calcium metabolism.

Question 5

What is the role of alpha synuclein in Parkinson’s?

Answer 5

It misfolds and forms Lewy bodies, leading to neuron damage and oxidative stress.

Question 6

Which heavy metals are implicated in Parkinson’s?

Answer 6

Manganese, iron, mercury, lead, aluminium, cadmium, cobalt, copper.

Question 7

What agrochemicals increase PD risk?

Answer 7

Rotenone, paraquat, and maneb due to mitochondrial toxicity and oxidative stress.

Question 8

How does L-dopa work?

Answer 8

L-dopa crosses the blood-brain barrier and converts into dopamine.

Question 9

What is the catecholaldehyde theory?

Answer 9

DOPAL, a dopamine breakdown product, becomes toxic and promotes alpha synuclein misfolding.

Question 10

What early signs may precede Parkinson’s diagnosis?

Answer 10

Constipation and loss of smell may occur up to 10 years before motor symptoms.