Dysautonomia is a prominent non-motor complication of Parkinson’s disease (PD) that may manifest many years prior to the onset of traditional motor symptoms. However, the nature of this dysfunction in PD remains poorly understood.

We are working with NYU Langone’s Dysautonomia Center to develop mechanistic understanding and develop biomarkers for these prodromal syndromes of synucleinopathies such as PD, dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and multiple system atrophy (MSA).

We also work with gastroenterologists to systematically study the physiological nature of constipation in PD patients. Using state-of-the-art methods to assess gastrointestinal function, we aim to determine whether PD constipation is unique in its etiology and requires specialized treatment modalities. We are also intensely interested in understanding the role of gut health in the pathogenesis of PD.

Learn more about how our team researches new ways to diagnose and treat Parkinson’s disease in its earliest stages.