Disease model: Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is primarily characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the nigrostriatal pathway. The pathology of PD is typified by the presence of cytoplasmic inclusions (Lewy bodies) containing alpha-synuclein and ubiquitin. The pathogenesis of PD is not completely understood but environmental and genetic factors are thought to play important roles. To understand the pathophysiology of PD, and to develop novel therapies for improved symptomatic management, it is important to have relevant disease models. In this review, we summarize the available in vivo and in vitro models of PD and discuss their value.