New research reveals that Parkinson’s affects not just neurons, but also the brain’s vascular system — with implications for disease progression and treatment.
How Parkinson’s Disease Impacts Brain Blood Vessels
- According to a recent study, Parkinson’s disease (PD) triggers region-specific and progressive changes in the blood vessels of the brain.
- Researchers from Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), along with the Universities of New South Wales and Sydney, found an increased presence of “string vessels” — remnants of capillaries that no longer function properly.
- They also observed altered blood flow and possible disruptions in the blood-brain barrier, which protects brain tissue from harmful substances.
Why These Findings Are Important
- Traditionally, Parkinson’s research has focused on neuronal death and protein buildup (alpha-synuclein). This study expands that view by highlighting vascular degeneration as a crucial factor.
- Such vascular changes could influence how symptoms develop and progress, especially as blood vessel damage affects oxygen and nutrient delivery.
- The study opens the door to new therapy targets: treatments that protect or restore blood vessel health might slow Parkinson’s progression.
Scientific Context & Evidence
- Previous research has shown that Parkinson’s patients have fewer capillaries, shorter vessel length, and less branching in certain brain regions — especially in the substantia nigra, the area most affected in PD.
- Longitudinal data suggests a two-way relationship: as vessel damage worsens (small vessel disease), Parkinsonism symptoms may emerge, and vice versa.
- Other studies link these vascular changes to cognitive decline in Parkinson’s, suggesting that small vessel disease may worsen brain function in later stages.
What This Means for Patients and Treatment
- Understanding vascular changes could lead to more holistic treatment strategies — not just focusing on neurons, but also improving vascular health.
- Doctors might begin to use MRI-based imaging of small blood vessels to track disease progression or response to treatment.
- Future therapies could include vascular protective drugs or strategies to improve blood flow and blood-brain barrier integrity.
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