A newer approach to Parkinson's disease: Addressing therapeutic features, repurposing drugs and the latest concepts with future goals

The article reviews advances in understanding and managing Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder. PD primarily results from neuronal damage in the brain regions controlling movement, causing dopamine deficiency. With over 10 million people affected globally, it poses a significant healthcare challenge. The disease's multifactorial etiology includes genetic, environmental, and epigenetic factors, with aging as a major risk factor.The review discusses the pathophysiology of PD, highlighting α-synuclein aggregation and its role in neurodegeneration, and addresses diagnostic methods like MRI and DAT-SPECT imaging, which enhance diagnostic accuracy. It examines therapeutic avenues, including pharmacological interventions like levodopa, dopamine agonists, and MAO-B inhibitors. Challenges with long-term medication use are also discussed.Emerging therapies such as electroceuticals, gene therapy, and stem cell approaches show promise in disease management. Non-invasive treatments like focused ultrasound and innovative technologies like deep brain stimulation (DBS) aim to modulate brain activity to alleviate symptoms. Complementary approaches, including physical, psychological, and nutritional therapies, offer holistic care, enhancing quality of life.The review underscores the need for personalized medicine and continuous research to address unanswered questions and develop disease-modifying treatments. It concludes by advocating for a multidisciplinary approach and the integration of advanced technologies to improve patient outcomes and address PD’s complexity.