Neuroinflammation is a key part of how Parkinson's disease (PD) gets worse. Let’s break down how this happens:
Activation of Microglia: In PD, special cells in the brain called microglia get activated. These cells act like the brain's immune system. When they activate, they release chemicals called inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-1β. These chemicals can harm the brain cells that make dopamine, especially in a region called the substantia nigra.
Oxidative Stress: The inflammation increases something called oxidative stress. This makes it even easier for brain cells to get damaged. High levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can lead to brain cell death.
Protein Clumping: Neuroinflammation can also lead to the buildup of a protein called α-synuclein. This clumping creates structures known as Lewy bodies. These are a main sign of PD and make the brain cell damage even worse.
Understanding these linked processes shows why it's essential to find ways to treat neuroinflammation when helping people with Parkinson's disease.
Neuroinflammation is a key part of how Parkinson's disease (PD) gets worse. Let’s break down how this happens:
Activation of Microglia: In PD, special cells in the brain called microglia get activated. These cells act like the brain's immune system. When they activate, they release chemicals called inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-1β. These chemicals can harm the brain cells that make dopamine, especially in a region called the substantia nigra.
Oxidative Stress: The inflammation increases something called oxidative stress. This makes it even easier for brain cells to get damaged. High levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can lead to brain cell death.
Protein Clumping: Neuroinflammation can also lead to the buildup of a protein called α-synuclein. This clumping creates structures known as Lewy bodies. These are a main sign of PD and make the brain cell damage even worse.
Understanding these linked processes shows why it's essential to find ways to treat neuroinflammation when helping people with Parkinson's disease.