Parkinson’s disease is a complex, progressive neurological disorder affecting up to 10 million people worldwide.

Probably caused by clumps of alpha-synuclein protein that damage dopamine-producing cells governing motor control, Parkinson’s is characterized by tremor, rigidity, poor posture and slow movement.

About 150 Israeli startups are developing technologies to help prevent, stop or even cure Parkinson’s. Azilect (rasagiline), one of the most successful drugs for managing Parkinson’s symptoms, was developed in Israel by Prof. Moussa Youdim and is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals.

Former Teva executives formed Pharma Two B in 2007 to see whether combining rasagiline with another approved Parkinson’s drug, pramipexole, could manage symptoms of early Parkinson’s in a better and safer way than either drug alone.