The UCLA Center for Gene Environment in Parkinson’s Disease is funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), and is part of the Center for the Study of Parkinson’s Disease (CSPD).

The goal of the CGEP is to determine how environmental factors, and pesticides in particular, contribute to the degeneration of dopamine-containing neurons in the substantia nigra (the cause of Parkinson’s disease).

Previous studies at the CSPD have established a strong link between exposure to environmental toxins and the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. Currently, our team of basic scientists, epidemiologists and neurologists are collaborating on studies in animal models, cellular models, and human patients to elucidate the exact mechanisms involved in neurodegeneration as a result of pesticide exposure. These studies are expected to ultimately result in identification of potential therapeutic targets to prevent the progression of Parkinson’s disease.

For more information, please visit the CSPD wesbsite.