Lymphatic system dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease – LYMP-PD

Several studies have suggested that abnormal functioning of the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier and the lymphatic system may be involved in the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD) by contributing to abnormally folded alpha-synuclein deposition. In this project, we will determine (WP1) using advanced MRI techniques whether there is impaired lymphatic vessel function and blood-CSF barrier function (WP1) in a humanized PD model of rodent, and (WP2) in a cohort of patients with PD and prodromal PD (iRBD isolated REM sleep behavior disorder). We will also determine the relationships between altered lymphatic vessel function and blood-CSF barrier function and neuromelanin deposition, inflammation, and iron deposition (histology in animals and iron imaging in man), neurodegeneration (histology) and impairment of motor function.