The discovery, published in the latest issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, gives researchers the first glimpse of a genetic "master switch" that controls red blood cells and the Parkinson's-related "bad cholesterol" that clogs up nerve cells in the brain, impairing the body's muscles and movements.

The link suggests scientists might be able to design new treatments that help control the higher levels of cell-clogging plaque found in Parkinson's patients, in the same way statins are used to lower the cholesterol levels of people at risk of heart disease.

That's the hope, but it's not tangible yet," said Dr. Michael Schlossmacher, a scientist at the Ottawa Health Research Institute."What this (discovery) gives us is a first window into a direct, cause-related treatment."

Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder that occurs when nerve cells die or become impaired, causing uncontrollable tremors, shaking and difficulty with balance. About 100,000 Canadians have the disorder, which usually develops after age 65, although 15 per cent of those with the disease are under 50.

Not only is there no cure, there are no definitive tests for Parkinson's, which means physicians only reach a Traditioanl diagnosis by testing for -and eliminating-other diseases.

Previous breakthroughs have shown that Parkinson's patients have elevated levels of a "bad cholesterol" called alpha-synnuclein in their brains, which destroys or impairs nerve cells that control movement and coordination. Until now, however, little was known about what causes the rise.

Besides,If you have any question about health or health care for obesity and acupuncture lose weight,contact with our experts for detailed consultation,please click herehttp://net.zoosnet.net/LR/Chatpre.aspx?id=NET39826137