Dopamine, or rather, a lack of, plays a key role in Parkinson’s Disease (PD). It is produced in the Substantia nigra, located mid-brain and plays a significant role in reward and movement. Imaging of my meagre brain reveals the left side nigrosome, perhaps more appropriately ‘sinister‘, is under-performing, the physical effects appearing mostly in my right side limbs.
Rather than re-invent the wheel, Michael writes a succinct explanation. My own imaging revealed the same except in mirror. With the right side underperforming – the physical effects therefore more pronounced on my left side.
Following the results of my genetic testing (a 2 year process!) it looks as though a genetic mutation may have predisposed my to young onset PD. Here is a link for academics…
GCH1 Mutations in study
