Is parkinson's disease hereditary and could it be caused by a toxic substance in the system?... Could it be found in the D.N.A. and perhaps prevented?
2006-12-09 16:45:55 · 5 answers · asked by montralia 5 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Other - Diseases
Parkinson's disease is caused by the progressive impairment or deterioration of nerve cells in an area of the brain known as the substantia nigra. Why Parkinson's disease occurs and how the neurons become impaired is not known. However, there is increasing evidence that Parkinson's disease may be inherited (passed on genetically from family members). There is also some evidence that certain toxins in the environment may cause Parkinson's disease. Scientists have suggested that external or internal toxins may selectively destroy the dopaminergic neurons, causing Parkinson's disease. Toxins that may be linked to Parkinson's include manganese, carbon monoxide, carbon disulfide and some other pesticides. Also, it is believed that oxidative stress can cause Parkinson's disease.
2006-12-09 16:58:01 · answer #1 · answered by Venice Girl 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The exact cause of the disease is not known. Parkinson's disease is more prevalent in some families, however researchers have not linked it to a particular genetic trait. I guess some genes could make a person more susceptible to it. The disease is caused by the degeneration of the cells that make dopamine (a neurotransmitter). If a substance was toxic to these cells in particular, or for some reason caused a decrease in the body's sensitivity to dopamine, it could cause the disease. I have read about a group of people who took a drug that was supposed to be crystal meth but wasn't and they ended up with Parkinson's-like symptoms... The would give some support to the toxic substance theory. Currently, there is no way to prevent the disease, however it can be treated with certain drugs and physiotherapy. I hope this helped a little, sorry I wasn't overly specific!
2006-12-09 17:01:11 · answer #2 · answered by blue 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The Parkinson's Reversing Breakthrough?
2016-05-16 12:55:08 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I know it is a very sad disease, I see it every day at work. I don't know the answer to your question but go to search it as a question on the main yahoo page it will give you tonnes of answers. Good luck!
2006-12-09 16:50:19 · answer #4 · answered by lexi 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In some cases toxicity can be the cause along with drug induced or infection. The most common cause is idiopathic.
2006-12-09 16:55:41 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋