THE most common genetic cause of Parkinson’s is not only responsible for the condition’s movement problems but may also affect vision, according to new research by scientists at the University of York.

Parkinson’s, the second most common form of neurodegenerative disease, principally affects people aged over 60.

Its most common symptom is tremor and slowness of movement, but some people with Parkinson’s also experience changes in vision.

Researchers in the department of biology have established a link between a mutation which triggers Parkinson’s and problems with vision.

Using electroretinagram (ERG) technology they found a gradual loss of function in eye nerve cells. However, the research team, which was supported by the university’s Centre for Chronic Disease and Disorders, found that other Parkinson’s-related mutations did not affect eye nerve cell function and there was no loss of vision.

Dr Chris Elliott, who led the research, said: “This is a significant step forward. We have to get away from the idea that Parkinson’s is only about movement problems.”