Men are twice as likely as women to develop Parkinson’s disease, but until recently it was unknown why. However, a new study has now revealed that it could be because of an immune response to a protein in the brain called PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1).
PINK1 is important in regulating cellular energy use in the brain. It is normally benign and, therefore, not a threat. However, new research indicates that in some Parkinson’s cases the immune system mistakes PINK1 for an enemy, leading it to attack the brain cells that express the protein. The study further revealed that the damage is far more widespread and aggressive in the brains of men than women.
Referring to the vast difference in the results between men and women, the study stated that they “were very, very striking” and explained that “this immune response may be a component of why we see a … difference in Parkinson's disease."
Speaking of the research led by a team from the La Jolla Institute for Immunology in California, immunologist Cecilia Lindestam Arlehamn said, "We could potentially develop therapies to block these T cells, now that we know why the cells are targeting in the brain." She also explained that it could help with early diagnosis.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder of the nervous system. It's a condition that affects movement and mental ability, the symptoms of which develop slowly over years. So, how do you know if you have Parkinson's disease, and what measures can you take to lessen its impact?