[S-29] Symposium 29
Preparing for disease-modifying therapies in PD – From biomarkers, animal models to novel therapeutic approach

[S-29-4] Novel therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondria

^○Carolyn M. Sue^1,2 (1.Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Australia, 2.University of Sydney, Australia)

For the realization of disease-modifying therapies (DMT) in PD, appropriate animal models for the preclinical study and early and progression biomarkers in PD are essential. As a target of DMT much attention have been paid for mitochondria and alpha synuclein, especially. The aim of this symposium is, 1) to update recent findings in biomarkers and animal models in PD including its prodromal stage, and 2) to introduce novel therapeutic approach, focusing on mitochondria and alpha-synuclein which are the key players in idiopathic PD.

Carolyn Sue is Executive Director of the Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney and Head of the Department of Neurogenetics at Royal North Shore Hospital and Director of the Parkinson’s Disease Centre of Excellence, Kolling Institute, University of Sydney. She was the first female adult neurologist to be promoted to Professor in Australia. Professor Sue is recognised internationally for her expertise in mitochondrial medicine and movement disorders. Her research studies investigate the role of mitochondria in neurodegeneration as it relates to mitochondrial and other neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson Disease. The results of her research are translated into her clinical practice to achieve her overall goal of improving the clinical care of her patients. Professor Sue is currently Co-Chair of the Education Committee for the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society and is appointed to the Society’s LEAP Faculty, Task Force on Genetic Nomenclature in Movement Disorders, as well as the Scientific Program Committee. She is also President-Elect for the Movement Disorders Society of Australia and New Zealand.