Parkinson’s disease destroys a specific type of nerve cells, resulting in movement and balance problems for those afflicted with the disease.
Researchers from Finland have found a molecule called CDNF that can prevent the degeneration of dopamine-producing nerve cells, and help damaged nerve cells recover.
The scientists from the University of Helsinki conducted experiments on rats that were bred to show symptoms of Parkinson’s. In tests, CDNF protected 96% of the animals’ nerve cells.
Source: BBC News (7/14/07)
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