Stem cells tested to slow Parkinson's disease
Fifteen Australians are joining a trial. Half will receive stem cell implants to slow Parkinson's disease. Half will receive a placebo.
Fifteen Australians will join a trial for Parkinson's disease. Half will have stem cells implanted into their brains.
Half will receive a placebo. The Next Generation study aims to restore dopamine-producing brain cells.
The disease gradually destroys these cells. Researchers will monitor outcomes over five years.
They hope to see reduced tremors and improved movement after 18 months. Parkinson's is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world.
Around 50 Australians are diagnosed every day. Current medications stop working as the disease gets worse.
Brett Smith has lived with Parkinson's for a decade. He calls the trial a genuine source of hope.
- 15 Australians
- Trial participants
- 50 Australians daily
- Diagnosis rate
- 20 years
- Research foundation
- 5 years
- Monitoring period
Why it mattersParkinson's has no cure and medications eventually stop working. This trial tests a possible way to slow the disease's progression.
AustraliaIf successful, this Australian-led trial could offer a new treatment option for the 50 Australians diagnosed with Parkinson's every day.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 d ago
