Deciphering the Primary Trigger of α-Synuclein Misfolding in Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease may originate decades before symptoms due to the misfolding of α-synuclein, yet the initial trigger remains unknown. This research investigates potential initiating factors, including genetic susceptibility, environmental toxins, oxidative stress, and gut-brain axis dysfunction. By integrating molecular and epidemiological evidence, it proposes a multi-factorial threshold-crossing model for disease onset. Identifying this trigger could enable early detection and prevention of Parkinson’s disease.