There’s a strong correlation between the presence of Lewy Bodies, mis-folded alpha-synuclein proteins in the brain, and the development of “Parkinson’s Plus” conditions, which include Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD).
This has led to new approaches in research, particularly as biomarkers for Lewy Bodies are investigated and approved (including the Syn-One test).
None of this has yet affected the treatment or diagnosis, as it is currently being debated, but there’s increasing consensus about the potential unification of the groups studying PD, DLB and PDD. However, not every individual who is diagnosed with one or more of these conditions has the presence of these Lewy Bodies. This is also being assessed, to find a way to develop effective diagnostic methods, medications, treatments and a clearer understand of the progression of the condition(s).
Two approaches have emerged simultaneously in parallel: One erases recognition of the individual conditions of PD, LBD and PDD, and puts them all under the umbrella of Synucleinopathies — diseases with synuclein at their core, what they’re calling Neuronal α-Synuclein Disease (NSD). The other approach has α-synuclein presence as a feature, but also allows the proposed name (SyNeurGe) to be applied to persons who have the symptoms of these conditions, but have no evidence of abnormal synuclein.
Currently, the information is almost exclusively scientific, and geared to research, and not treatments. But this may change, although it’s possible there will be enough reaction against these approaches from the individual sectors focused on what’s currently considered separate conditions to render these new approaches irrelevant or, as I feel more likely, to refine and evolve them both, and with all of these potentially becoming unified in future.
Learn more on these topics:
AlzForum
A Biological Definition of Parkinson’s Disease: Two Proposals Pave the Way
Practical Neurology
New Staging System for Parkinson Disease and Dementia with Lewy Bodies Based on Biologic Factors Proposed
MedPageToday
New Parkinson’s Definition Proposed Based on Biomarkers — Framework focuses on the biology of Lewy body diseases
University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth Houston)
Study: Misfolded alpha-synuclein protein key to early detection of Parkinson’s disease
I welcome suggested clarifications, corrections and suggestions of valid resources and links.
Strength and courage to all.
Timothy Hudson
February 11, 2024.