Christchurch research could help Parkinson's disease patients

Researchers from the University of Otago, Christchurch’s, Van der Veer Institute have been granted $179,899 to investigate changes in the brains of patients with Parkinson’s disease who suffer from anxiety.

The grant was from the Neurological Foundation and was announced today.

Many people with Parkinson’s disease experience anxiety, which can add significantly to the burden of disease for them and their caregivers.

A University of Otago, Christchurch, research team, led by Dr Toni Pitcher, aims to use advanced brain imaging techniques to extend their knowledge of changes in the brain associated with anxiety in people with Parkinson’s disease.

The research findings could be used in future to predict patient’s responses to treatment or to monitor responses to treatment regimens.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a disease which affects 1% of the population aged over 60. Often people with the disease suffer from non-motor disturbances, such as anxiety, as well as classic motor symptoms.

Neurological Foundation executive director Max Ritchie said “Recipients continue to demonstrate the highly innovative thinking that enables New Zealand to remain at the leading edge of research into the understanding, prevention and treatment of neurological disorders.’’

The Neurological Foundation announces grants twice a year, in July and December.