Neurotrophic factors for the treatment of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder caused by the progressive degeneration of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathway. The resulting loss of dopamine neurotransmission is responsible for the symptoms of the disease. Available treatments are initially successful in treating PD symptoms; however, their long-term use is associated with complications and they cannot stop the neurodegeneration. Current research aims at developing new therapies to halt/reverse the neurodegenerative process, rather than treating symptoms. Neurotrophic factors are proteins critical for maintenance and protection of neurones in the developing and adult brain. Several neurotrophic factors have been investigated for their protective effects on dopaminergic neurones. Here we review some of the most promising factors and provide an update on their status in clinical trials. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.