Aerobic exercise may help Parkinson's victims

Arizona State University researchers are aiding efforts to help victims of the chronic neurological disorder known as Parkinson's disease. Much of the work is conducted through the Center for Adaptive Neural Systems in ASU's Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

The Arizona Republic recently reported on a project led by Narayanan Krishnamurthi, an assistant researcher professor for the center. The research team is exploring the links between brain function, motor skills and aerobic activity in Parkinson's disease patients.

Specialists are looking at how a regular exercise program tailored specifically for people with Parkinson's might be effective in reducing the decline in physical agility that is one of the major symptoms of the disease.

Supported by the National Institutes of Health, ASU researchers are teaming up on the study with Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Banner Alzheimer's Institute and Barrow Neurological Institute.