You catch this disease on the street: 1 hour of exposure is enough

In experiments conducted on mice in the early stages of Parkinson's, it was determined that the animals exposed to noise began to lose their mobility and balance control.

EVEN 1 HOUR IS ENOUGH

The research team conducted experiments at sound levels ranging from 85 to 100 decibels, a range equivalent to a sound as loud as a lawnmower or kitchen mixer.

In the first experiment, mice were exposed to noise for just one hour, resulting in a brief slowing of movement and loss of balance.

In the second phase, experiments continued for seven days. When the mice were exposed to the same noise for one hour each day, permanent motor impairments occurred.

AFFECTS CELLS

Scientists have discovered that loud noise overstimulates the inferior colliculus, the brain's auditory center. This region is directly connected to the substantia nigra, an area responsible for dopamine production.

It was determined that these dopamine-producing neurons were damaged and died as a result of overstimulation, resulting in impaired motor skills. The study also found that noise reduced levels of the dopamine-transporting protein VMAT2. This decrease in this protein resulted in dopamine deficiency, leading to Parkinson's-like movement disorders.

Environmental influences play a role

Scientists emphasized that the findings show that Parkinson's disease is not limited to genetic factors alone, but also that environmental factors can affect the course of the disease.

The results of the study suggest that noise pollution should also be considered in the prevention of neurological diseases. The study authors stated, "Extended exposure to loud noises can disrupt dopamine balance in the brain and accelerate the progression of Parkinson's-like disorders."