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Abstract
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder resulting in the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra, leading to motor dysfunction. Current treatments manage symptoms but do not stop disease progression, emphasizing the need for novel therapies. Mutations in the LRRK2 gene are a common genetic cause of PD, with its kinase domain's hyperactivation driving neurodegeneration through impaired autophagy, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. Efforts to inhibit LRRK2's kinase activity have led to the development of small-molecule inhibitors like MLi-2 (Type I) and GZD-824 (Type II). Despite their efficacy, concerns remain regarding mislocalization and toxicity. Concurrently, stapled peptides targeting LRRK2 protein-protein interactions show promise due to their enhanced stability and specificity. This study explores a combination therapy using small-molecule inhibitors and stapled peptides to suppress LRRK2 activity, aiming to identify potential synergistic effects and reduced toxicity, advancing more effective PD treatments.