Early-stage trial for Parkinson’s disease therapy shows signs of promise

The loss of dopamine-producing neurons with Parkinson’s causes symptoms including a tremor, slow movements and muscle stiffness. Photograph: David Davies/PA

Scientists have reported early success in a trial of an experimental cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease, raising hope for patients.

Bemdaneprocel therapy is at an early stage, and the year-long trial involved just 12 patients, but the positive outcome is viewed as significant after decades of setbacks in the hunt for an effective treatment. Developed by BlueRock therapeutics, a subsidiary of the pharmaceutical company Bayer, it was shown to be safe and the data gave a tantalising suggestion that patients may have benefited.