Immunotherapy Of Parkinson'S Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. It elicits a broad range of debilitating motor and as well as non-motor symptoms, both of which can lead to serious disability. There is currently no available agent with disease modifying properties. Immunotherapy is increasingly being investigated as a disease modifying treatment for PD based on our improved understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. Current evidence points to a causal role of misfolded alpha-synuclein (alpha-syn) in the development and progression of PD and it has therefore become a primary focus for immunotherapy. Today, two principal approaches are being pursued: active and passive immunization. This chapter first addresses progress in active and passive immunotherapeutic approaches targeting alpha-syn for Parkinson's disease in animal models. We then discuss clinical progress of alpha-syn immunotherapy including ongoing clinical trials. Finally, we address challenges and future perspectives for PD immunotherapy.