In Parkinson’s, there is a loss of nerve cells - known as neurons - in the part of the brain called the substantia nigra. These cells are responsible for producing dopamine, a chemical that passes messages from the brain to other parts of the body, particularly those involved in the co-ordination of movement. The underlying cause of destruction of the dopamine-producing neurons is unknown. Neuronal death is accompanied by inflammation, involving glial cells within the brain. In Parkinson’s, there is an indication that the glial cells do not function normally, but are termed to be activated. This may contribute towards the destruction of dopamine-producing cells and impairment of production of essential growth factors required for dopamine nerve cell survival.