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Current Science Reviews by Joe Bruman August 1995 Bandmann, o. et al: J Neur Neurosurg Psy 1995; 59:90-91 In the oxidative stress hypothesis of PD and other neurodegenerative diseases, free radicals are thought to destroy nerve cells. These substances normally are scavenged and made harmless by the enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), which occurs in several forms that aare controlled by genes. ALS patients show a deficiency of the form SOD-1, due to a mutant gene. Authors suspect the same genetic defect is also present in PD, but are still looking for proof. (Genetic link to PD might identify those at risk long before symptoms appear.) Haug, B. et al: Brain 1995; 118:771-778 At the same timne it attacks dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, PD also affects color-sensing cells in the retina, particularly the blue-sensing ones. Authors find that elaborate color-perception tests can reveal retinal-cell degeneration in PD patients, and therefore mark progress of the disease. (Could this be related to the empirical effect of blue glasses?) Science News, July 29 1995: p 73 Somatix Therapy Corp. of Alameda, CA has injected genetically engineered cells that overproduce a dopaminergic enzyme, into brains of monkeys with drug-induced parkinsonism. Monitoring by Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory showed promising results, and Somatix hopes to begin human trials next year. (Sorry, I don't have a formal journal reference at the moment. Some aspects of this news item are unclear.) Golfinos J. et al: J Neurosurg 1995; 83:197-205 The stereotactic frame (invented by Dr. Lauri Laittinen?) used in PD surgery is cumbersome and must be rigidly attached to the skull. Workers are looking at easier ways to guide the cranial probe, and have tried (a) triangulation markers attached to the scalp, and (b) a device using the back teeth as an anchor. So far, the accuracy of about 3mm is adequate for some purposes, but for PD surgery (either ablation or tissue graft) accuracy of 1mm or better is desired. For this, it is still necessary to include electrical stimulation during the procedure. (Commentary by JRB)