Sleep Disorders and Prodromal Signs of Parkinson's Disease: Exploring the Link for Early Detection and Intervention

Sleep disturbances commonly affect individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD), significantly impacting their quality of life. A sleep disorder of particular interest is Rapid eye movement (REM) Behavior Disorder (RBD), characterized by the enactment of dreams during the REM phase of sleep. RBD has been found to be associated with PD and other synucleinopathies, potentially serving as a predictive marker for the development of neurodegenerative conditions, including dementia and PD. This dissertation provides a comprehensive overview of PD, encompassing its symptoms, etiology, and current therapeutic approaches. The correlation between dream enactment and the subsequent incidence of neurodegenerative disorders is explored, shedding light on potential underlying mechanisms and pathways of disease progression. Furthermore, various biomarkers show promise in the early detection of PD, aiming to identify individuals at risk for developing the disease. Genetic markers, imaging techniques, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis are among the biomarkers considered, providing potential avenues for early intervention and disease management. In the last section, novel neuroprotective therapies are proposed, concerning new motor circuits used in RBD. By targeting the abnormal motor circuits associated with RBD, these interventions aim to slow disease progression and improve long-term outcomes for individuals with PD. In brief, this research highlights the importance of understanding the relationship between sleep disorders, particularly RBD, and the subsequent development of neurodegenerative conditions. By identifying early markers and exploring novel therapeutic approaches, this study aims to pave the way for preventive strategies and early interventions that may delay or mitigate the onset of PD and related disorders.