2023
Review of the role of the endogenous opioid and melanocortin systems in the restless legs syndrome
Walters A, Li Y, Koo B, Ondo W, Weinstock L, Champion D, Afrin L, Karroum E, Bagai K, Spruyt K. Review of the role of the endogenous opioid and melanocortin systems in the restless legs syndrome. Brain 2023, 147: 26-38. PMID: 37633259, PMCID: PMC10796165, DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad283.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchConceptsRestless legs syndromeMu-opioid receptorsRLS patientsEndogenous opioidsLegs syndromeOpioid receptorsSerum ironΒ-endorphinMelanocortin systemIdiopathic restless legs syndromeRLS-like symptomsPeriodic limb movementsLow serum ironWild-type miceSensory changesMelanocyte stimulating hormoneReceptor blockersSerum ferritinAutopsy studyStriatal dopamineAdrenocorticotropic hormoneStimulating hormoneDopaminergic systemMouse modelTherapeutic efficacy
2020
Implications of the Gut Microbiome in Parkinson's Disease
Elfil M, Kamel S, Kandil M, Koo BB, Schaefer SM. Implications of the Gut Microbiome in Parkinson's Disease. Movement Disorders 2020, 35: 921-933. PMID: 32092186, DOI: 10.1002/mds.28004.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchConceptsParkinson's disease patientsDisease patientsParkinson's diseaseMotor symptomsNervous systemEnteric nervous systemGut microbiome dysbiosisGut microbiome changesDifferent body systemsRelease of neurotoxinsCentral nervous systemCommon neurodegenerative disorderNormal gut microbiomeΑ-synuclein aggregatesNonmotor manifestationsAutoimmune responseNeuroprotective factorsAutopsy studyDopaminergic neuronsSubstantia nigraPathophysiologic changesMicrobiome dysbiosisMotor featuresGastrointestinal systemSystemic circulation