‘Extraordinary’ brain network discovery changes our understanding of Parkinson’s disease

image via New Scientist

February 4, 2026, 4:00 PM

• •Parkinson's disease may be a whole-body brain network disorder, not just a movement disorder.
• •The somato-cognitive action network (SCAN) is linked to Parkinson's symptoms.
• •Targeting SCAN with brain-stimulating treatments could better alleviate symptoms.
• •Existing treatments and brain stimulation can decrease SCAN connectivity, improving motor function.
• •Noninvasive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) focused on SCAN regions may improve results.

Scientists have identified a key brain network, the somato-cognitive action network (SCAN), that is disrupted in people with Parkinson's disease. This network, linking the mind and body, is crucial for turning thoughts into actions. The researchers found that targeting this network with brain stimulation could alleviate Parkinson's symptoms. This discovery challenges the traditional understanding of Parkinson's as solely a movement disorder, suggesting it's a whole-body brain network disorder.

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