What’s New in Parkinson’s: Breakthroughs, Studies, and Support

The Michael J. Fox Foundation has awarded Enigma Biomedical USA a $2 million grant to develop and test a PET tracer that targets harmful alpha-synuclein clumps, a key driver of Parkinson’s disease. This breakthrough imaging tool could transform Parkinson’s research by improving diagnosis, guiding clinical trials, and accelerating the development of disease-modifying therapies. Read More

A recent study suggests that wrist-worn movement sensors may offer a more accurate and consistent way to track tremor in Parkinson’s disease than clinic visits or patient recall alone. The device continuously measures tremor strength, duration, and overall activity in daily life, providing detailed insights that could help improve diagnosis, monitor symptoms, and guide more timely treatment adjustments. Read More

A recent study in mice suggests that aerobic exercise may help improve motor symptoms and reduce anxiety in early Parkinson’s disease, though higher-intensity workouts could have mixed effects on the brain’s immune system. The findings highlight the benefits of regular, moderate exercise for movement, mood, and gut health, while underscoring the need to monitor exercise intensity carefully in Parkinson’s care and research. Read More

The Global Parkinson’s Genetics Program (GP2) has reached a major milestone, with over 100,000 DNA samples from participants worldwide now genotyped and sequenced, creating one of the most comprehensive and globally representative datasets for Parkinson’s disease. This unprecedented resource is already driving discoveries, including more than 50 new genetic risk factors, and, with over one-third of participants from historically underrepresented populations, offers the statistical power and diversity needed to accelerate research, improve understanding of disease mechanisms, and guide the development of targeted therapies for Parkinson’s patients around the world. Read More

Researchers have discovered that alpha-synuclein oligomers, protein clusters linked to Parkinson’s disease, form dynamic pores in nerve cell membranes, which may disrupt cell function and contribute to disease progression. Using innovative imaging techniques, the team observed how these oligomers bind, partially insert, and repeatedly open and close pores, particularly in membrane regions with certain lipid compositions. Understanding this process could lead to new strategies for blocking damage early, offering hope for future therapies to protect neurons in Parkinson’s. Read More

A pilot study found that noninvasively stimulating a leg nerve with Stimvia’s URIS device may safely ease motor symptoms and improve quality of life for people with Parkinson’s. Among participants with tremor, more than two-thirds experienced relief within six weeks, and by the end of the study, over 85% saw their tremors reduced by half. The device, which stimulates the peroneal nerve through skin electrodes, can be used independently at home and was well-tolerated with no serious side effects.

Researchers are now preparing for a larger international trial to confirm these promising results. READ MORE

Smell loss can be an early sign of brain disease, including Parkinson’s. The Michael J. Fox Foundation’s Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) invites you to take a free smell test to help researchers better understand disease risk and progression. Participation takes less than five minutes and could play a vital role in shaping the future of Parkinson’s care. READ MORE

The PERSEVERE study is an important research project designed to support family care partners of individuals living with Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD) or dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). This study focuses on providing education, resources, and mentoring to help care partners navigate the unique challenges of caring for a loved one with these conditions.

What is this study about?

The study is testing a 12-week educational program created specifically for family care partners of people with PDD or DLB. The goal is to provide practical knowledge, emotional support, and strategies that empower care partners in their role.

What’s involved?

Participants in the study will:

• Receive weekly guidance through short readings, resources, and activities.
• Complete all participation virtually—there are no in-person visits.
• Complete surveys and assessments at the start of the study, and every two weeks for nine months.

This structure ensures care partners can participate from the comfort of their own homes while gaining tools to support their caregiving journey.

Who can participate?

As a Care Partner Participant
You may qualify if you are:

• A family care partner of a loved one diagnosed with PDD or DLB, with cognitive symptoms or hallucinations for less than three years.
• Currently living with your loved one or providing at least 10 hours of care per week.
• Living in the United States.
• Have phone and internet access.
• Comfortable speaking and reading English.

As a Care Partner Mentor
You may qualify if you are:

• A family care partner of a loved one diagnosed with PDD or DLB, with cognitive symptoms or hallucinations for at least three years, or of a loved one who has passed away.
• Currently living with your loved one or providing at least 10 hours of care per week (or in the past if deceased).
• Living in the United States.
• Have phone and internet access.
• Comfortable speaking and reading English.

Study Sites

Participation is virtual, so care partners from across the United States are welcome to join. To learn more or complete the screening survey, visit: https://redcap.link/PERSEVERE1

Questions?

For more information about the PERSEVERE study, please email: persevere@rush.edu

Source: Information for this article was provided by the Lewy Body Dementia Association.