A rising tide with liraglutide

A class of diabetes drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists have exhibited neuroprotective properties in models of Parkinson’s, and a Phase IIb clinical trial produced encouraging. This research has led to a number of parties to start investigating new and old GLP-1 receptor agonists for their potential to slow the progression of […]


GCase: Mutants matter?

Tiny genetic variations in a region of DNA called the GBA gene are associated with an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s. The information in the GBA gene provides the instructions for making an enzyme (called GCase) which is involved with waste disposal inside of cells. Individuals with Parkinson’s who carry a […]


The road ahead: 2022

The first post at the start of each year on the SoPD website tries to provide an overview of where things are in the search for ‘disease modifying’ therapies for Parkinson’s.  It is an exercise in managing expectations as well as discussing what research events are scheduled for the next year […]


ADepTing to the UCB-Novartis deal

Alpha synuclein has long been viewed at “Public enemy #1” by the Parkinson’s research community. This sticky, abundant protein starts to cluster (or aggregate) in Parkinson’s. There have been several attempts to reduce levels of the protein floating around outside of cells (using “immunotherapy” approaches) But now clinical research is ramping […]


Mo better for TEVA with Modag?

  This week the pharmaceutical company TEVA Pharmaceuticals Industries Ltd has announced a deal with a small German biotech firm called MODAG. The two companies are forming a strategic collaboration on the exclusive worldwide licensing and development of MODAG’s lead compound anle138b. Anle138b is a small molecule inhibitor of the believed […]