Parkinson's Disease CURRENTLY ENROLLING Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder. It occurs when certain nerve cells (neurons) in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra die or become impaired. Normally, these cells produce a vital chemical known as dopamine. Dopamine allows smooth, coordinated function of the body's muscles and movement. When approximately 80% of the dopamine-producing cells are damaged, the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease appear. The loss of dopamine production causes the primary symptoms of Parkinson’s disease: Tremor (shaking), slowness of movement, rigidity (stiffness), difficulty with balance. Other signs of Parkinson’s disease may include small, cramped handwriting, stiff facial expression, shuffling walk, muffled speech, depression, memory impairment. How can Parkinson’s disease be diagnosed? The neurologist arrives at the diagnosis only after a thorough examination. The medicines commonly used attempt to either replace or mimic dopamine, which improves the tremor, the rigidity as well as the movement difficulties associated with Parkinson’s disease. Several new medicines are being studied that may slow the progression of this disease. Learn more about clinical trials...

’