PARKINSON'S DISEASE NEWS

20th March 2009 - New research

SPINAL CORD STIMULATION FOR PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Science [2009] 323 (5921) : 1578 - 1582 (Romulo Fuentes, Per Petersson, William B.Siesser, Marc G.Caron, Miguel A.L.Nicolelis)   Complete abstract

Researchers have found that electrical stimulation of the spinal cord restores movement in mice who have been depleted of dopamine pharmacologically, and in chronic 6-hydroxydopamine–lesioned rats. Both of these conditions simulate Parkinson's Disease. The functional recovery was paralleled by a disruption of aberrant low-frequency corticostriatal oscillations, leading to the emergence of neuronal activity patterns that resemble the state normally preceding spontaneous initiation of movement. The researchers are therefore suggesting that the method may become an effective means of treating Parkinson's Disease. The method appears to use similar principles and methods as those used with Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). As with Deep Brain Stimulation it would have to be used continuously. The researchers anticipate that the device will be similar to those already used to treat chronic pain. They use small leads that are implanted over the spinal cord and connected to a portable generator. For more information go to the complete News report.

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Parkinson's Disease News details all significant new research, news reports, new books, and new resources concerning Parkinson's Disease and those medical disorders that often coincide with Parkinson's Disease : Parkinsonism, Essential Tremor, Dystonia, Restless Legs Syndrome. It is compiled from an analysis of  all newly published research, news reports, new clinical trials, all newly published books, and new web sites. A summary and analysis of the new research are provided,  as well as links to the complete abstracts and news reports.