Review on: the mechanism and function of Glia in parkinson's disease

Abstract

An aging population is most likely to suffer from Parkinson’s disease (PD). There is currently no effective treatment for Parkinson’s disease due to lack of understanding of how the disease develops and progresses. A number of studies have recently shown that glia profoundly affects the homeostasis of the brain and how the brain heals itself. A previous hypothesis regarding the cause of this condition was that the cells of the dopaminergic system in the midbrain had been damaged. An important part of the neurodegenerative process is the loss of supportive-defensive glial functions, as well as the toxic gains that result from such interventions. This article aims to provide an overview of the roles of astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia in the early development of Parkinson's disease. It also discusses the possible application of medications associated with glia in the treatment of PD.