The infusion of chemicals into the basal ganglia, the part of the brain affected by Parkinson’s, is a relatively new and experimental technique.
A growth factor called glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) has been used as an infusion into the part of the brain where dopamine is lacking, in the hope of encouraging the damaged cells to rejuvenate and produce more dopamine. Although initial results were promising, the outcome of later studies was very mixed. Because of this, combined with safety issues, the pharmaceutical company involved has stopped making GDNF despite the fact that some researchers disagree with this decision.
Further research into brain infusions is required.
