Neurological diseases affect millions of Canadians, yet understanding their molecular causes remains challenging. To address this, Dr. Mizumoto is using the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans to study neural circuit development. With only 302 neurons and a short life cycle, C. elegans offers an ideal model for exploring neuron communication and synapse formation.
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Empower the Parkinson’s community in British Columbia by providing resources and services to enable self-management, self-reliance, and self-advocacy.

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Development of a New Health-related Quality of Life Measure for Parkinson’s Disease
Jul 14, 2020 | Research
Researchers often assess treatment impact using generic questionnaires, but these may not fully capture the experiences of people with Parkinson’s disease. At McMaster University, Assistant Professor Ayse Kuspinar is developing a questionnaire specifically for PD patients to reflect their unique concerns.
Development of Improved Substrates for Live Cell Imaging to Aid in Discovering New Glucocerebrosidase Therapeutic Agents
Jun 17, 2020 | Research
Parkinson’s disease affects millions globally, and there is no standard treatment to halt its progression. A promising approach involves targeting the protein glucocerebrosidase (GCase), as boosting its activity could slow PD’s advancement.
Viewpoints: Summer 2020
Jun 15, 2020 | Viewpoints
In the Summer 2020 issue of Viewpoints, Dr. Matthew Sacheli discusses how exercise enhances neuroplasticity and improves brain function for people with Parkinson's. He shares research on how regular exercise increases dopamine release in the brain, aiding motor...
Brave and lionhearted, Richard Mayede’s Parkinson’s has determined him to be a positive force in life
Apr 29, 2020 | Inspirational Stories
“Parkinson's has made me a more well-rounded person. The best lesson I learned is humility,” Richard Mayede says reflecting on his journey with Parkinson’s disease. Since 2015, PSBC Board Member, Richard Mayede has been a valued active member of the Parkinson Society...
Lynda Bennett
Apr 9, 2020 | Inspirational Stories
April 19-25 marks National Volunteer Week in 2020. Parkinson Society British Columbia (PSBC) relies on the dedication and support of volunteers across the province, who help facilitate our support groups, organize Parkinson SuperWalk in their communities, and put on...
Viewpoints: Spring 2020
Apr 1, 2020 | Viewpoints
In the Spring 2020 issue of Viewpoints, Judy Zhu discusses mindfulness and meditation for individuals with Parkinson’s, explaining its benefits and how to incorporate it into daily life. This edition also highlights various subsidized transportation options available...
2019 Annual Report
Apr 1, 2020 | Annual Reports
As we reflect on the past year, we are both proud and inspired by the progress we have achieved together for the Parkinson’s community in British Columbia.
LRRK2 Activity in Health and Disease: Elevated ROS Levels in Inflamed, LRRK2 Mutant Brain
Mar 26, 2020 | Research
Inflammation and genetics are two key factors linked to Parkinson’s disease, but neither alone may trigger the disease. Dr. Michael Schlossmacher, from the University of Ottawa Research Institute, is studying the interaction between inflammation and a gene mutation, LRRK2, found in people with PD.