Generalized mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's disease detected by magnetic resonance spectroscopy of muscle.

Abstract

To explore mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's disease (PD) using 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy of resting muscle. Case-control study (28 PD patients and 28 normal controls) determining resting forearm inorganic phosphate/phosphocreatine (Pi/PCr) ratio. Significant difference (p = 0.004, one-tailed test) in Pi/PCr ratio between PD patients (0.122) and controls (0.104). No correlation of Pi/PCr ratio with duration, severity, or speed of onset of disease. Positive correlation of Pi/PCr ratio with age in control group; reversed in PD group. Suggests small generalized mitochondrial defect in PD. The possibility that earlier onset of disease is associated with more severe mitochondrial dysfunction needs further study.