Research

Dr. Ali Salahpour from the University of Toronto is exploring whether combining L-DOPA, the primary treatment for Parkinson’s disease, with cannabinoid compounds can enhance its effectiveness and reduce side effects like L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia (LID). His research systematically tests multiple cannabinoids in animal models, aiming to improve Parkinson’s treatment and also discover new therapies for rare dopamine-related diseases.

Dr. Nika Shakiba from UBC is researching human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to improve their safe and efficient use in cell therapies for conditions like Parkinson’s disease. Her lab uses genetic engineering and computational tools to detect and eliminate cancer-like mutations in lab-grown cells, optimizing biomanufacturing and differentiation processes to make hPSC-based treatments more reliable and scalable.

Dr. Nicholas See is focusing on the enzyme glucocerebrosidase (GCase), which, when underactive, has been linked to earlier onset and faster motor decline in PD patients. Even beyond genetic mutations, reduced GCase activity is a consistent factor in PD. Unlocking these modulators may reveal novel pathways for PD treatment and bring hope for future therapies.

Dr. Brendan Santyr’s research aims to improve Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) therapy for Parkinson’s disease by using functional MRI to quickly determine optimal stimulation settings after surgery. If successful, it could enhance DBS accessibility and promote more individualized care for PD patients globally.

Researchers at the University of British Columbia are developing a wearable device to help Parkinson’s disease patients manage their L-dopa medication more effectively. The study, led by Dr. Martin McKeown, uses the Empatica EmbracePlus wristband, which tracks physiological data such as heart rate and skin temperature, to predict when a patient’s medication is wearing off. This personalized approach aims to alert patients to take their next dose before symptoms appear, improving medication timing and overall quality of life.

Dr. Caroline Paquette’s study examines how fatigue affects walking and movement in people with Parkinson’s disease. Fatigue, common in PD, impacts both physical and mental functioning. The goal is to better understand fatigue in PD and its impact on daily life, potentially leading to improved management strategies.

Dr. Biniyam Ayele is working to identify biomarkers for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in people with Parkinson’s disease. MCI, often a precursor to dementia, is difficult to diagnose early due to a lack of clear biological markers. Early detection could allow timely interventions like cognitive therapy and medications, potentially slowing dementia progression.

Dr. Jean-Francois Nankoo is exploring a new approach to treat freezing of gait in people with Parkinson’s disease. He uses low-intensity ultrasound waves to target the cerebellum, a brain area that may compensate for movement issues in Parkinson’s. By stimulating this region, Nankoo hopes to unfreeze patients’ gait and restore their mobility.

Dr. Matthew Krause is exploring a non-surgical approach to treat Parkinson’s symptoms using transcranial electrical stimulation. This method delivers electrical stimulation to the brain’s basal ganglia through electrodes placed on the scalp, avoiding the risks of surgery. His research could make brain stimulation therapies more accessible and improve mobility and independence for people with Parkinson’s disease.