Sigma-Aldrich to develop Parkinson's research models with Michael J Fox Foundation funding
US life science company Sigma-Aldrich and The Michael J Fox Foundation (MJFF) for Parkinson\'s Research are to collaborate on developing more accurate preclinical research models of Parkinson\'s disease.
US life science company Sigma-Aldrich and The Michael J Fox Foundation (MJFF) for Parkinson's Research are to collaborate on developing more accurate preclinical research models of Parkinson's disease.
With a research grant from MJFF, Sigma Advanced Genetic Engineering (SAGE) Labs will use CompoZr zinc finger nuclease (ZFN) technology to create superior preclinical research models to help in disease research. The models, which are expected to take as little as one year to develop, will be made accessible to scientists throughout the Parkinson's research community in order to speed up basic research and drug development.
No existing model has been able accurately to mimic the onset and progression of the underlying disease processes that characterise Parkinson's in humans. Research already conducted into the genetic causes of the disease has identified a number of genes but indicates a strong connection to mutations in five particular genes: LRRK2, alpha-synuclein, DJ-1, Parkin and PINK1.
The MJFF funding will allow Sigma-Aldrich to create five rat models with each of these genes deactivated using the CompoZr ZFN technology.
"The models that we are developing may one day help in the development of new therapeutic approaches to a number of diseases," Dr Edward Weinstein, director of SAGE Labs. "We are excited to have an opportunity to advance scientific understanding in areas that can directly improve the lives of those that suffer with this disease."