Gamma-glutamylcysteine Supplementation to Boost Brain Glutathione and Improve Motor and Cognitive Function in Early Parkinsons Disease Patients Aged 50 to 80

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of oral Gamma-glutamylcysteine GGC supplementation in people with early Parkinsons Disease PD. The study aims to measure changes in the brain and blood levels of glutathione, a key antioxidant, and how these changes relate to motor function, cognitive skills, and gut health in PD patients. This pilot trial focuses on understanding how GGC may influence disease progression through its antioxidant properties. Participants will take a 400 mg GGC tablet twice daily, once in the morning and once in the afternoon, for 12 months. Brain glutathione and iron levels will be measured using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and Imaging before and after supplementation. Blood levels of glutathione and iron will also be tested at these times. Motor function and cognitive abilities will be assessed before and after the treatment period to monitor changes associated with GGC use. During the study, participants will undergo neuropsychological exams, motor function testing, and gut microbiome evaluations. Assessments include the Movement Disorders Society-Unified Parkinsons Disease Rating Scale and several cognitive tests such as the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status. Researchers will track glutathione and iron levels, motor and cognitive changes, and psychological distress over the 12-month period. This comprehensive monitoring will help evaluate the impact of GGC supplementation on PD symptoms and biological markers.

Enrichment of Glutathione Using Gamma-glutamylcysteine Supplementation in Parkinson's Disease Patients.