Advancements in Parkinson's cell therapies and treatment research

Scientists have developed a more efficient method for using stem cells to create dopaminergic neurons, the nerve cells responsible for producing dopamine. By genetically engineering the stem cells to remove four specific genes, researchers were able to increase the production of usable dopaminergic neurons from 25% to 69%. Transplants of neurons created using this new technique showed improved motor function in a rat model of Parkinson's disease. The researchers hope to transfer this method to clinical trials to improve cell therapies for Parkinson's patients.