MSPs to gift their brains to help find a cure for Parkinson's

Published on Monday 21 December 2009 21:46

A NUMBER of Holyrood MSPs have boosted a campaign to help the victims of Parkinson's disease – by agreeing to donate their brains to scientific research.

The five politicians who have signed up include former Labour leader Wendy Alexander.

Three other Labour MSPs Marlyn Glen, James Kelly and Helen Eadie have also agreed, along with Kenneth Gibson from the SNP.

The number of people agreeing to donate their brains to medical research after death has almost doubled the charity revealed yesterday, with an extra 2,332 people having signed up following an appeal in April. The overall total now stands at 4,032.

In addition to the politicians, a number of celebrities have also pledged their brains. They include Jane Asher, Jeremy Paxman and John Stapleton.

However, the charity now wants younger people who have Parkinson's to sign up.

Twice as many woman as men have put their name on the register, suggesting that men could be harder to persuade.

Jane Asher, who is president of the charity, said: "Our appeal for more brain donors this year has been hugely successful, but we still need more help. The more brains of both sexes we can study, the more we can help people of all ages to cope with its effects."

Around 120,000 people are currently living with Parkinson's in the UK and there are around 10,000 new cases every year.

Dr Kieran Breen, director of research and development at the Parkinson's Disease Society, said: "We are passionate about finding a cure and better treatments for people with Parkinson's.

"We are delighted with the response to our appeal. Scientific research on brains from people both with and without Parkinson's is essential to help us move closer to our goal."

People wanting more information can call 0808 800 0303 or visit www.parkinsons.org.uk/brainbank.