Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised histologically by the death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and the presence of Lewy bodies in various parts of the brain. The SNpc is a compact structure in the midbrain that plays a vital role in motor coordination and movement control by producing a chemical substance called dopamine, which is integral for controlling the initiation, velocity, and fluidity of voluntary movement sequences. The causes of most cases of PD (known as ‘sporadic’ or ‘idiopathic’ PD) are still unknown but involve complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. PD is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer’s disease, affecting 1% of the population over the age of 60 and reaching approximately 5% at 85. The prevalence is rising due to ageing populations.

Description