From the Gut to the Brain: Understanding Parkinson’s Progression and Research Breakthroughs

Welcome to episode seven of The Caring Neurologist , where hosts Dr. Sandeep Thakkar dives deep into the world of Parkinson’s disease, this time shining a spotlight on the cutting edge of clinical research. In this episode, Dr. Thakkar explains why research and care are inseparable for truly advancing Parkinson’s treatment, and opens up about the most exciting developments shaping the field today. From discussing the importance and process of clinical trials, to breaking down how gene therapy, artificial intelligence, and novel therapies like stem cells are transforming what’s possible for Parkinson’s patients, this conversation is packed with hope and real-world insights. Dr. Thakkar shares his unique perspective as both a hands-on physician and research leader, offering a glimpse into promising new studies and explaining how patients can get involved in shaping the future of care. If you or a loved one are navigating Parkinson’s or just curious about how research becomes real-life treatment breakthroughs, this episode is filled with practical wisdom, encouragement, and a peek at the innovations on the horizon. So grab your notebook and get ready to be inspired by Dr. Thakkar’s passion and expertise, as he remind us why curiosity, partnership, and patient empowerment are the driving forces behind progress. Timestamps: 00:00 FDA Clinical Trial Phases 07:20 Advancements in Parkinson's Research 09:49 AI in Pharma: Molecular Insights 12:48 Parkinson's Research Developments 17:50 Parkinson’s as a Proteinopathy 20:53 Clinical Trial Participation Considerations 25:55 Pharma Influence on Politics 29:46 Parkinson’s Care and Research Hub 32:05 Purpose-Driven Career 34:16 Recording End Acknowledgment The Caring Neurologist - Podcast Website - https://thecaringneurologist.com/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-thakkar-do-798a2499/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - Clinic - https://ocparkinsons.com/about-mdpds/our-team/dr-thakkar/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”