Prime Highlight
- Researchers in Australia found that Parkinson’s disease triggers major and region-specific changes in the brain’s blood vessels, offering fresh insights into disease progression.
- The findings suggest that targeting vascular changes could open new pathways for treatment and improving patient outcomes.
Key Facts
- The study observed an increase in “string vessels,” disruptions in blood flow, and damage to the blood–brain barrier, indicating cerebrovascular involvement in Parkinson’s disease.
- The research was conducted by Neuroscience Research Australia in collaboration with the University of New South Wales and the University of Sydney and published in the journal Brain.
Background
Researchers in Australia have reported that Parkinson’s disease causes major and progressive changes in the brain’s blood vessels, offering new insight into how the disease develops and pointing toward potential new treatment pathways. The findings were released by Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) on Tuesday and published in the journal Brain.
Parkinson’s disease is widely known for the build-up of alpha-synuclein protein and the loss of neurons. However, the new study shows that the disease also affects the brain’s blood vessels in specific ways. According to the research team, these region-specific changes in blood vessels play a significant role in how the disease progresses.
NeuRA postdoctoral researcher Derya Dik, who led the study, said the results challenge long-held views about the condition. She explained that while Parkinson’s research has typically concentrated on protein buildup and neuron loss, their work highlights effects on the brain’s blood vessels, or cerebrovasculature.
The researchers found a rise in “string vessels,” which are non-functional remnants of capillaries that suggest damage to normal blood vessel structure. The team also noticed changes in blood flow and disruptions in the blood–brain barrier, the protective layer that controls what enters the brain.
Scientists from the University of New South Wales and the University of Sydney collaborated on the project. They believe that targeting these progressive and region-specific vascular changes may help slow the disease and improve patient outcomes.
NeuRA researchers are now examining whether similar blood vessel changes occur in people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. The team said this broader investigation may reveal common mechanisms across neurodegenerative diseases and help guide future therapeutic strategies.
