HD mice crossbred with mice that produced greater levels of PGC-1alpha showed dramatic improvement. Production of misfolded proteins was essentially eliminated and the mice behaved normally. “Degeneration of brain cells is prevented. Neurons don’t die,” said La Spada.
Farnesol, a naturally occurring compound found in berries and other fruits, prevents the loss of dopamine-producing neurons and reverses Parkinson's associated damage to the brain in mouse models.