Exploring NOD2: A New Path Toward Parkinson’s Therapies

The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) has awarded a grant to Valo Health to support the development of treatments aimed at the underlying causes of Parkinson’s disease, rather than just managing symptoms. The Role of NOD2 The project will focus on the NOD2 gene, which has been identified as a risk factor for Parkinson’s. NOD2 is part of a family of receptors that act as cellular sensors, helping the immune system detect danger signals. Previous studies suggest it may play a role in the death of dopamine-producing nerve cells, a hallmark of Parkinson’s disease. How Artificial Intelligence is Helping Valo will use its expertise in artificial intelligence, human genetics, and real-world patient data—including outcomes from more than 17 million patients with records spanning over 20 years—to better understand how NOD2 contributes to Parkinson’s. This approach may reveal strategies to modulate the gene’s activity, potentially influencing both disease progression and severity. The Targets to Therapies Initiative This grant is part of MJFF’s Targets to Therapies Initiative, which works to expand the number of drug targets available for Parkinson’s treatment. By fostering open collaboration across the field, the initiative aims to accelerate the development of therapies that can slow or stop Parkinson’s disease progression, bringing new hope to people and families affected by the condition.