DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED MEDICAL RESEARCH PROGRAMS

The following content was updated in March 2022 and will no longer be updated.
For current information on Parkinson’s research, please go to the PRP
For current information on Toxic Exposures research, please go to the TERP

Vision – To eliminate Parkinson's disease through neurotoxin exposure and treatment related research in partnership with scientists and consumers

Neurotoxin Exposure Treatment Parkinson's Program Cover Image
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Neurotoxin Exposure Treatment Parkinson's Cover Image
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Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a degenerative movement disorder of the central nervous system resulting from a loss of neurons in a region of the brain called the substantia nigra. These neurons produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter important for motor control; however, as PD progresses, the death of dopaminergic neurons results in reduced dopamine levels and impairment of motor control. The Neurotoxin Exposure Treatment Parkinson's program was initiated in 1997 to provide support for research of exceptional scientific merit leading to an understanding of the cause, prevention, and treatment of the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra that result in PD. Projects examine neurodegenerative mechanisms and compensatory effects that compromise motor, autonomic, and cognitive systems that are characteristic alterations in PD patients and also present performance and health risks for military personnel.

Several risk factors for the development of PD that are of particular interest to the military community have been identified in peer-reviewed studies. The most significant risk factors include: exposure to agriculture-type chemicals (including pesticides, insecticides, and solvents); traumatic injury to the head; depression; prolonged physiologic or mental stress; repeated or prolonged disruption of sleep architecture; and repeated or prolonged disruption of autonomic nervous function. These may immediately impact both physical and cognitive performance as well as predispose susceptible Warfighters to the development of neurodegenerative conditions such as PD. The NETP challenges the scientific community to develop the most impactful research that will advance the understanding of the disease, with the ultimate goal of ending PD.


Congressional Appropriations

Congressional Appropriations

  • $484.8 million
    FY97-21

Funding Summary

Funding
Summary


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Vision

To eliminate Parkinson's disease through neurotoxin exposure and treatment related research in partnership with scientists and consumers

Mission

Support Parkinson's research investigating the underlying biologic mechanisms and therapeutic interventions of neuro-degenerative effects caused by deployment, environmental, and occupational exposures in Service members and Veterans

Last updated Tuesday, January 31, 2023