第7回講演会 発表要旨

Lecture 3:

Analysis of the model pathogenic mechanism for Parkinson’s and a theory for the transmission of Parkinson’s

Peter Wellstead
(Professor (Emeritus) National University of Ireland, Maynooth and Manchester University, UK.)

　A core feedback motif is derived from the Parkinson’s Simulation Model and used as a theoretical model for Parkinson’s pathogenesis – e.g. a bifurcation process within a bistable system with a transition to the Parkinsonian state from a healthy state. The analytical model of pathogenesis is given its first experimental confirmation.
The accepted theory for spread of Parkinson’s through the brain is by a molecular diffusion process. We demonstrate ‘in-silico’ that this is not the case. We then use the theoretical model of pathogenesis in a reaction diffusion process which gives transmission times for Parkinsonian damage that are consistent with the human experience. The reaction-diffusion theory also gives a clear explanation for the very wide variation in progression of Parkinson’s disease observed in humans. We conclude with a discussion of how mathematical models in general, and a theoretical model for pathogenesis and the transmission of Parkinson’s particular, can guide and focus the search for preventions and cures of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s.

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