New Targets for Treating the Underlying Pathophysiology and Nonmotor Aspects of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a common neurodegenerative disease diagnosed by well established clinical motor symptoms. However, the disease also encompasses many nonmotor issues that can impact a myriad of processes such as cardiovascular status, gastrointestinal function, autonomic function, mood and sleep. These issues can be more debilitating and impactful on health status in part because of a lack of effective treatments. The pathophysiology of the disease process is under active investigation with postulated mechanisms involving both the central nervous system and the periphery. More in depth examination of the many nonmotor symptoms may aid in the discovery of the overarching pathological origin and progression of Parkinson’s disease. Examining the disease process from the perspective of nonmotor symptoms may also provide additional target pathways and potential drug development options not considered previously.