This trial is now complete. Supported by Cure Parkinson’s and the J P Moulton Foundation, the results are expected in 2021.

Originally used to treat cirrhosis of the liver, researchers found that the rescue effect of UDCA on the liver cells may actually be due to cellular protective mechanisms. Researchers found it had a marked rescue effect on the mitochondria or ‘cell batteries’ in Parkinson’s affected neuronal tissue and demonstrated protection of dopamine cells grown in culture. These neuroprotective effects of UDCA were also found in a large screening study conducted by researchers led by Professor Oliver Bandmann at the University of Sheffield.