The immune system is strongly implicated in Parkinson’s disease (PD), with evidence that there is immune dysfunction and neuroinflammation in the prodromal and early stages of disease. This dysfunction is linked to a heightened response to alpha-synuclein, a protein central to PD, and an increase in pro-inflammatory markers and immune cells. While the exact mechanisms remain unclear, potential triggers include infections, toxins, genetics, and aging. Our lab is working to develop a novel T-cell based immunomodulatory platform for the treatment of PD and to identify the role of other peripheral players in the efficacy of this therapeutic platform. See more: