Exciting News for Parkinson’s Patients: Video Games Aid Brain Surgery Research
In a groundbreaking initiative, American scientists have kicked off a five-year mission, generously funded with $5 million from the US National Institutes of Health. Their goal? To delve into how playing video games during brain surgery can shed light on the mysteries of Parkinson’s disease, the second most prevalent neurodegenerative ailment after Alzheimer’s.
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This ambitious project seeks to craft tailor-made treatments for Parkinson’s patients, promising hope for a brighter future in managing this challenging condition.
“We will try to understand how our brain controls the actions we perform, how we make decisions between competing goals, how we stop moving, and how we switch actions,” said Vasileios Christopoulos, assistant professor of bio-engineering at University of California-Riverside.
Why Study Parkinson’s Disease ?
Parkinson’s Disease is a complex condition that affects the way our brains control our movements. In people with Parkinson’s, a network in the brain responsible for regulating actions becomes disrupted. This leads to a range of difficulties, including slower movements, trouble stopping or starting a movement, and sometimes even experiencing a sudden “freeze” in motion. As the disease advances, a crucial component of the brain, called dopamine-producing cells, begins to deteriorate. Dopamine is like a messenger in our brains that helps us feel pleasure and stay motivated. So, when these cells dwindle, it can result in a decrease in feelings of pleasure and motivation, which are key factors in understanding and managing this disease.
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Process of Treatments
To start treating this disease, doctors often prescribe a medication called L-Dopa. This drug helps replenish the dopamine that’s lost in the brain. However, if L-Dopa or similar medicines become less effective over time, there’s a more advanced treatment called deep-brain stimulation. This is usually considered when other options aren’t providing sufficient relief. In this procedure, tiny electrodes are surgically placed to gently stimulate a specific part of the brain known as the subthalamic nucleus (STN). Interestingly, this area is also linked to conditions like Tourette’s syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder, in addition to Parkinson’s.
In the endeavor to enhance treatments for Parkinson’s disease, approximately 200 patients will undergo electrode implantation while conscious as part of a research project. They will engage in a video game using a joystick before, during, and after the surgical procedure, enabling the research team to observe the treatment’s real-time effectiveness. The patients’ behavioral and neurological data will be utilized by Christopoulos to construct an expansive mathematical model of brain function, facilitating the testing of theories regarding its operation.
According to Christopoulos, “Through the culmination of this project, an effort is made to refine treatments, rendering them tailored to individual patients.”
He further emphasized, “It is acknowledged that Parkinson’s is a terminal disease, but our aspiration is to bestow upon individuals an improved quality of life and an extended lifespan.” Christopoulos noted that, as explained by him, the subthalamic nucleus serves as a vital element in actions like stopping while crossing a street when a bus approaches, acting as a sort of inherent brake in the brain’s functioning. He added, “In Parkinson’s, it is established that this region operates in an overly active manner. Consequently, for these individuals, executing any action is akin to maneuvering a vehicle with a constant foot on the brake.”
FAQ
How Parkinson’s disease is caused?
Here are the main causes
Neurotransmitter Deficiency
Parkinson’s disease is primarily caused by a deficiency of a neurotransmitter called dopamine in the brain. Dopamine helps regulate movement and emotional responses.
Degeneration of Brain Cells
In Parkinson’s, specific nerve cells in the brain, located in an area called the substantia nigra, start to degenerate and die off. These cells are responsible for producing dopamine.
Alpha-Synuclein Accumulation
Another key factor is the accumulation of abnormal protein clusters, particularly alpha-synuclein, within brain cells. These clusters, known as Lewy bodies, disrupt normal cell functioning.
Genetic and Environmental Factors
While most cases of Parkinson’s are sporadic, meaning they occur without a clear cause, some cases have a genetic component. Certain genetic mutations can increase the risk. Environmental factors like exposure to toxins may also play a role.
Age as a Risk Factor
Although Parkinson’s can occur at any age, it is more common in older individuals. The risk increases with advancing age.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
As dopamine levels continue to decrease, individuals experience symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. A medical professional diagnoses Parkinson’s based on a combination of symptoms and sometimes specialized tests.
Remember, while the exact cause isn’t always clear, ongoing research is helping to deepen our understanding of Parkinson’s disease.
What foods should Parkinson’s patients avoid?
Parkinson’s patients should consider limiting or avoiding certain foods. High-protein meals, especially those rich in dairy or red meat, can interfere with the absorption of medication for Parkinson’s. Excessive dairy intake may also inhibit the effectiveness of medications. Foods high in saturated fats, like fried and processed foods, can contribute to weight gain and cardiovascular issues, common concerns for those with Parkinson’s. Additionally, sugary and heavily processed foods can lead to energy spikes and crashes, potentially exacerbating fatigue and affecting overall well-being. Moderation and a balanced diet, emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, are generally recommended to support optimal health for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Consulting a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice is advisable.
What is the latest treatment for Parkinson’s disease?
Here are some of the latest treatments for Parkinson’s disease:
1. Gene Therapies
2. Focused Ultrasound
3. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Advances
4. Continuous Drug Delivery Devices
5. GDNF (Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) Therapy
6. Exercise and Physical Therapy Innovations
7. Virtual Reality and Gamification in Rehabilitation
8. Advanced Medications and Formulations
9. Neuroprotective Agents in Development
10. Personalized Treatment Approaches
Please note that while these treatments show promise, it’s crucial for individuals with Parkinson’s to consult their healthcare providers for the most appropriate and up-to-date tre
atment.
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