White matter changes in Parkinson's disease

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Neurology
• Pathology

Background:

• Parkinson's disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, second only to Alzheimer's disease (AD).
• PD is classically defined by dopaminergic neuron loss in the substantia nigra pars compacta and Lewy body formation.
• While traditionally viewed as a gray matter (GM) disease, recent research highlights the role of white matter (WM) alterations in PD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evidence of WM abnormalities in PD.
• To explore correlations between WM changes and specific PD symptoms.
• To summarize molecular studies on oligodendrocyte (OLs)/myelin alterations in PD.

Main Methods:

• Review of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies investigating white matter in Parkinson's disease.
• Analysis of transcriptome and genome-wide studies examining oligodendrocyte and myelin changes in PD.
• Correlation analysis between white matter alterations and clinical Parkinson's disease symptoms.

Main Results:

• MRI evidence indicates widespread white matter abnormalities in individuals with Parkinson's disease.
• Specific white matter changes are associated with distinct motor and non-motor symptoms of PD.
• Transcriptome and genome studies reveal alterations in oligodendrocytes and myelin integrity in PD.

Conclusions:

• White matter abnormalities, driven by changes in myelin and oligodendrocytes, are integral to Parkinson's disease pathology.
• These myelin/oligodendrocyte alterations represent potential therapeutic targets for Parkinson's disease treatment.
• Understanding WM changes provides a more comprehensive view of PD pathogenesis beyond gray matter.