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Forwarding a reply to my question about parkinson's research here at McMaster University. Barb ---------- Forwarded message ---------- Date: Mon, 15 May 1995 11:49:41 +0500 (EST) Subject: My research Barb In regard to your message of May 9/95 I am pleased to let you know about my research program. My research does not involve the testing of new drugs in clinical trials. All our research is basic research with animals. Our interest lies in the use of growth factors and genetically modified cells that may help to repair degenerating dopamine pathways in the brain. We are currently inserting new genes that encode for the production of growth factors (known to improve the survival and life span of neurons) into selected cell types. The effects of the new genes on neuron growth and development are studied in tissue culture and when we transplant the modified cells into the brains of rats used as models of Parkinson's. The long term goal of this research is to design and engineer cells that will prevent degeneration of the dopamine systems in Parkinson's and repair the affected neuronal pathways in order to restore appropriate functional behaviour. Essentially, we are looking at a form of possible gene therapy for Parkinson's. Hope I have been of some help to you. Laurie Doering Anatomy, HSC 1R1 McMaster University 1200 Main Street West Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8N 3Z5