Folic acid deficiency linked to Parkinson's Disease in mice


http://www.nia.nih.gov/newsroom/2002...insons-disease


Mice fed a diet deficient in folic acid were more prone to develop Parkinson’s disease, according to a new study.
In Parkinson’s disease, the nerve cells that produce the chemical dopamine die, leaving those affected with movement problems, and symptoms such as tremor, rigidity and stiffness. It’s already known that people with Parkinson’s tend to have lower than normal levels of folic acid in their blood – but it’s not been clear if this is a result of the disease itself, or a possible cause.

Scientists at the National Institute of Aging in the US say that adequate folic acid intake may protect us from Parkinson’s disease. They looked at two groups of mice – both given a chemical that made them develop Parkinson’s disease. The mice given adequate amounts of folic acid were protected from the disease, while those whose diet was deficient went on to develop the disease. It looks as if folic acid prevents the build-up of homocysteine, an amino acid that poisons the neurons that fail in Parkinson’s disease.

This is the first evidence that folic acid may help prevent Parkinson’s disease. Of course, the same effect has not yet been demonstrated in humans – but this study suggests it’s worth making sure you get enough folic acid, through a good intake of green, leafy vegetables, and citrus fruits and juices.