An international research team led by Dr. Hilal A. Lashuel, a professor of neuroscience at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, is advancing efforts to better understand and develop treatments for Parkinson’s disease through a new $9 million, three-year global research grant. The funding comes from Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s (ASAP) in partnership with The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Dr. Lashuel, who also serves as the research development and innovation advisor to the chairperson of Qatar Foundation and holds a professorship at the Swiss Federal Technology Institute (EPFL), emphasized the critical need for further investigation into Parkinson’s disease. Despite significant progress over the past 30 years, many fundamental questions remain unanswered, including the initial triggers of the disease, the reasons behind its varied symptoms among patients, and effective strategies for halting or reversing its progression.
Recent advances in genetics, imaging, and cellular modeling have enabled unprecedented precision in studying the disease. Dr. Lashuel highlighted the development of novel human and disease-relevant cellular models in his lab, which form a key component of the collaborative project. The research team includes partners from Stanford University and Arvinas, combining expertise in stem cell biology, genetic screening, lysosomal biology, and targeted protein degradation.
While prevention methods for Parkinson’s remain elusive, emerging evidence suggests that lifestyle factors such as physical activity, diet, sleep quality, social engagement, and cardiovascular health management may reduce risk. Dr. Lashuel noted that effective prevention is often contingent on early detection and a thorough understanding of the disease’s mechanisms, areas this project seeks to address.
A central goal of the research is to uncover how toxic protein aggregates form and propagate within the brain, contributing to neuronal damage. By identifying the processes that hinder the brain’s ability to clear these aggregates, the team aims to discover therapeutic targets to prevent, neutralize, or remove them. The project also intends to create improved laboratory models that accurately reflect the complex pathology of Parkinson’s disease, facilitating wider scientific exploration and drug development.
Parkinson’s prevalence varies globally, with age identified as the primary risk factor. The disease is more common among populations with older demographics and those carrying certain genetic variants prevalent in specific communities.
Dr. Lashuel underscored Qatar’s unique position in global biomedical research. He pointed to the country’s commitment to inclusive research that represents the genetics and health needs of underrepresented populations. With robust infrastructure and a growing pool of talent, Qatar aims not only to participate in but also to influence the global scientific agenda. Furthermore, by fostering regional collaboration and serving as a catalyst for scientific advancement, Qatar seeks to enhance its role as a leader in the biomedical research community.