The Menzies Research Institute Tasmania will begin a new research project aimed at increasing understanding of the mechanisms underlying Parkinson's Disease, thanks to the fundraising efforts of Parkinson's Tasmania.

The Menzies Research Institute Tasmania will begin a new research project aimed at increasing understanding of the mechanisms underlying Parkinson's Disease, thanks to the fundraising efforts of Parkinson's Tasmania.

Parkinson's Tasmania will present the cheque for $25,000 to Menzies today. The donation will allow a pilot study into treatment of the toxic accumulation of a particular protein that is present in high levels in people with Parkinson's Disease.

Associate Professor Tracey Dickson will lead the project. "Before we can understand what causes Parkinson's Disease we need a better understanding of what takes place at both the protein and cellular level in the brain" she said.

"It is our hope that through our investigations we will not only begin to understand the mechanism that underlies this devastating disorder, but more importantly to identify a compound that may be useful for future treatment development.

"Funding for pilot studies is so important. It allow us to get new work started then, depending on the results they deliver, we may be able to apply for funding to extend the research."

Helen Connor-Kendray, the president of Parkinson's Tasmania, said the organisation was aware of the need for research into the many aspects of Parkinson's disease.

 "We have received some donations for research and have also added to these funds to be able to give a substantial donation to the Menzies centre specifically for research into Parkinson's disease," Mrs Connor-Kendray said.

Honours student Anna Talbot and post-doctoral research fellow Dr Edgar Dawkins will work with Associate Professor Dickson on the project.

Parkinson's disease is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders. Its incidence increases steadily with age, affecting approximately 1 per cent of the population at age 55 and up to 5 per cent by the age of 85.

Parkinson's Tasmania is a voluntary organisation that relies on donations. It works to support those living with Parkinson's disease as well as their caregivers and families.

For more information and to arrange interviews:

Miranda Harman

Marketing and Communications Manager

Menzies Research Institute Tasmania

Phone: 03 6226-7751

Miranda.harman@menzies.utas.edu.au

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