unique among serious neurological diseases in that it is treatable. Though the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease were first described 200 years ago, the cause of the illness remains unknown. Diagnosis is often complication and difficult, especially in the initial phases of the disorder, because symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease mimic those of other illnesses. This research will explore the causes and symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease, the neurological aspects of the disorder and describe in detail new and promising treatments aimed at combating and potentially curing the debilitating illness. Others aspects of the illness, like its impact on cognitive function, will be included in the discussion. A conclusion will discuss the controversy over stem cell research and its potential to act as a barrier to advances in the search for a cure for Parkinson’s Disease and other serious neurological disorders.
Researchers have known for a long time that Parkinson’s Disease causes damage to specific parts of the brain. However, Parkinson’s Disease belongs to a category of illnesses known as idiopathic disorders because their causes are unknown. This makes PD unique from Parkinsonism is used to classify those who suffer the symptoms from PD but from a known cause. Research studies and statistics confirm that a growing number of young people are being afflicted by the disorder as a result of recreational drug use from drugs like heroin and ecstasy. While the causes of Parkinson’s Disease proper are unknown, researchers theorize that there are multiple causes acting together that span the following categories: biology, genetics, and environment.
There are numerous biological factors thought to play a role in the development of Parkinson’s Disease. Apoptosis is a process that occurs naturally in all individuals. Apoptosis is programmed cell death that occurs through genetic regulation (What, 2002, 2). However, those with...