Personalized management of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dopaminergic neuron loss, α-synuclein aggregation, and oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. These contribute to motor symptoms like bradykinesia, tremor, rigidity, and postural instability, alongside non-motor issues such as cognitive decline and autonomic dysfunction. With rising global prevalence, especially in aging populations, understanding PD's complex pathophysiology is essential for advancing effective therapeutic strategies. This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of Parkinson's disease, covering its demographic trends, molecular mechanisms, symptoms, and current pharmacological treatments, including their mechanisms, classifications, benefits, and side effects. The central focus is on the emerging shift from standard symptomatic care to personalized, precision-based treatment strategies. These include gene-targeted therapies like RNA interference and CRISPR-Cas9, mitochondrial-based approaches, and stem cell innovations such as induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Pharmacogenetic profiling and biomarker-based interventions further support individualized therapeutic plans by predicting drug responses and tracking disease progression. This chapter explores patient-centric models like personalized neurorehabilitation, DBS, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, alongside advanced technologies such as AI, VR, AR, and wearable devices that enhance treatment, symptom monitoring, and real-time feedback through mobile applications. Lifestyle adaptations, including precision nutrition and customized exercise regimens, are highlighted as key components of comprehensive care. This chapter highlights a personalized, multi-dimensional approach to Parkinson's disease management, integrating molecular, technological, and lifestyle strategies to both ease symptoms and modify disease progression.