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BRAIN STORMS: The Race to Unlock the Mysteries of Parkinson’s Disease

by Jon Palfreman

Prospects for better treatments for Parkinson’s disease are the hope that lies at the end of this well-researched history and overview of the current state of research. Palfreman brings his skill as a science writer and a deep personal commitment to an initially dark narrative. A generation ago, L-dopa was the breakthrough drug that would supply dopamine … to neurons in movement control centers. Thus it would stop the tremors, falls, and other signs of Parkinson’s—except when it didn’t … Fortunately, there are promising developments on the horizon … Palfreman reminds patients that exercise and a positive attitude help, and he urges them to participate in clinical trials and take to task drug companies reluctant to initiate huge trials for what they dismiss as a non–life-threatening disease.

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