GENE THERAPY FOR PARKINSON’S

Because Parkinson’s disease arises from the very localised dysfunction of one group of brain cells, it should be a good candidate for gene therapy. Early results are promising – a phase 1 trial, in which an adeno-associated virus vector carrying DNA encoding the enzyme that converts levodopa to dopamine was injected directly into the affected tissue, revealed no safety issues. Motor function among participants was stable or improved throughout the three-year trial. Studies continue.