UA Research Takes Us One Step Closer to Better Parkinson’s Treatment

From Fruit Flies to Mice: Hope in the Garden for Parkinson’s Treatment

A compound first showing promise against Parkinson’s disease in fruit flies has now demonstrated remarkable neuroprotection in mice, according to recent research. This collaborative effort between The University of Alabama and Oregon Health and Science University could potentially pave the way for prevention strategies or treatment options for humans.

Dr. Lukasz Ciesla, an associate professor of biological sciences at UA, and Dr. Urmila Maitra, a researcher in his lab, led the project. They discovered that Gardenin A, a flavonoid found in a common South Asian shrub, could ameliorate both cognitive and motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

The story began a few years ago when a study linked specific diets to a reduced risk of Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative conditions. Researchers homed in on flavonoids, plant-based compounds known for their health benefits. "We wanted to understand why they provided this protective effect," said Ciesla.

Several flavonoids from the fruit fly study showed potential, but Gardenin A stood out. The recent study in mice confirmed the compound’s neuroprotective effects could translate to more complex brains and offered other valuable insights.

For instance, the latest study used a genetic model of Parkinson’s, rather than the toxin-induced model of the earlier study. The fact that Gardenin A showed benefits in both models is significant because, in humans, both genetic and environmental factors contribute to Parkinson’s development.

"Two people might be exposed to the same toxin, but only one develops the disease due to genetic predisposition," explained Ciesla. "We call that a gene by environment interaction."

Moreover, the team found that Gardenin A didn’t just improve mobility, but also enhanced memory in mice. This is notable, as current Parkinson’s treatments primarily target motor symptoms.

Earlier research often focused on flavonoids’ antioxidant effects, but Ciesla believes that’s not the key mechanism. "These molecules actually resolve neuroinflammation," he said. The studies showed Gardenin A had neuroprotective effects, unlike its counterpart, Gardenin B. This suggests the compound’s potential in managing neuroinflammation.

Ciesla’s work is a significant stride in harnessing nature’s medicines to shed light on diseases like Parkinson’s. As research continues, hope blossoms in the garden of possibilities.