Mutations in the LRRK2 gene were first linked to Parkinson's disease (PD) risk in 2004. Since then, researchers from around the world have advanced our understanding of the mechanisms through which LRRK2 may contribute to PD, leading to the development of three potential LRRK2-targeted therapies that are now being evaluated in clinical trials. Along with colleagues and collaborators, Dr. Dario Alessi has pioneered new research and approaches that have aided in the development of drugs to inhibit LRRK2 and potentially treat people with Parkinson's disease. In this episode Dario discusses his work developing the LRRK2 kinase assay, LRRK2 Ser935 dephosphorylation assay, and Rab phosphorylation assay, as well as future directions and opportunities in the field. This year, Dario received the 2023 Robert A. Pritzker Prize for Leadership in Parkinson’s Research for his substantial research contribution and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of Parkinson’s scientists. Dario is the Professor of Signal Transduction and Science Director of the Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit at the University of Dundee.

This podcast is geared toward researchers and clinicians. If you live with Parkinson’s or have a friend or family member with PD, listen to The Michael J. Fox Foundation Parkinson’s Podcast. Hear from scientists, doctors and people with Parkinson's on different aspects of life with the disease as well as research toward treatment breakthroughs at https://www.michaeljfox.org/podcasts.