Parkinson’s Disease Models
– With human-relevant in vitro data
For advanced drug discovery, target validation and pre-clinical support
Bioneer has over 100 publications in CNS research, including collaborations with Lundbeck and Johnson & Johnson.
At Bioneer, we provide human iPSC-based Parkinson’s disease models and associated assays to support drug discovery, target validation, and preclinical development.
Our models capture key disease-relevant mechanisms, including α-synuclein aggregation, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction, to generate biologically relevant, translatable data.
We use dopaminergic and cortical neurons, as well as astrocytes, with optional gene-edited cell lines to model patient-specific or engineered disease variants.
These systems can be implemented as single-cell-type or multi-cellular co-culture models, enabling physiologically relevant functional readouts such as electrophysiology (MEA), imaging-based analyses, and mitochondrial function assays.
Together, these approaches provide robust, human-relevant platforms to accelerate Parkinson’s disease research and preclinical development.
Key benefits of our Parkinson’s Disease Models
Biologically relevant, translatable data
Human iPSC-derived dopaminergic and cortical neurons represent key cell types affected in Parkinson’s disease. We implement these models as single-cell-type or multi-cellular systems, including neuronal–glial interactions, to generate biologically relevant, translatable data.
Flexible study design
Our Parkinson’s disease model assays are tailored to your project, supporting early compound screening, dose-response studies, and detailed mechanistic evaluations using functional and disease-relevant readouts.
Optional co-culture models with functional readouts
Where appropriate, we apply neuron–astrocyte co-culture models to increase relevance and enable functional, translatable endpoints such as neuronal network activity, biomarker responses and mitochondrial activity.
Applications of our Parkinson’s Disease Models
Drug discovery and compound profiling
Evaluate and prioritize compounds using human-relevant Parkinson’s disease models, based on iPSC-derived neuronal and astrocyte cell types. We design studies to address multiple disease-relevant mechanisms, such as α-synuclein pathology, lysosomal dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial biology.
Target validation
Investigate how therapeutic targets are linked to Parkinson’s disease biology using disease-relevant neuronal and glial models to generate mechanistic insight and support confident target selection.
Preclinical support
Generate quantitative, human-relevant in vitro data to support preclinical development and informed decision-making across Parkinson’s disease programs.
Imaging of alpha-synuclein aggregation (pS129-asyn positive) in iPSC derived cortical neurons (Map2 positive and DAPI stain).
Complementary solutions for Parkinson’s disease research
We provide end-to-end CNS solutions to support Parkinson´s disease modelling, from patient-derived cell reprogramming and gene editing to advanced co-culture assays and functional readouts. Our team takes pride in connecting every step from cell to data, enabling precise and reproducible insights into PD linked mechanism.
Click on the pages below to learn more about our capabilities relevant for studying Parkinson´s disease:
- Alpha-synuclein aggregation assay
- Seahorse Assays
- Multi Electrode Array (MEA) assays
- Hight Content Cell Imaging
- Gene Editing
- iPSC-derived Neurons
- iPSC-derived Astrocytes
- iPSC-derived Microglia
Working with us
When you work with us, you get a dedicated project manager and a team of experienced scientists focused on your project. Our flexible workflows, creative mindset, and human-first approach ensure that your research is guided efficiently and collaboratively.
Established expertise
Serving the life science ecosystem since 1982, Bioneer has a strong foundation in science and technology, with a proven track record in CNS research and disease models.
Human-first approach
We prioritize close collaboration, personal relationships, transparent direct communication, and building trust that lasts — because successful research is built on people as much as on data.
Our CNS leadership
Bjørn Holst,
Dept. Head of Cellular Engineering and Disease Models
Kenneth Thirstrup,
R&D Manager, CNS Assays
FAQ – about our Parkinson’s Disease services
Practical Questions
Can I get a consultation to discuss my project?
Yes. By briefly filling out our contact form on this page, we’ll set up a no-obligation consultation to discuss your needs. We’re always happy to explore solutions and help you find the best path forward.
How does a project usually proceed?
We start with an initial discussion to understand your research objectives and define the scope of your project. Together, we then design the study or project workflow, including the appropriate Parkinson’s disease models and assays, and agree on a timeline.
Throughout the project, we provide regular updates and remain flexible, adapting our approach as needed to meet your goals.
At the end of the project, you receive a comprehensive overview of the findings generated with our Parkinson’s disease models, including scientific interpretation and recommendations. Our team remains available for follow-up questions and ongoing support.
Model and scientific relevance
Why choose in vitro models for Parkinson’s disease research?
Our human cell-based models are a cost-effective alternative to rodent models and can better replicate aspects of the disease, since they are human-derived.
Which Parkinson’s disease mechanisms can be studied in your models?
We can study many different disease mechanisms, typical examples being protein aggregation and inflammation.
Are your models relevant for both early- and late-stage Parkinson’s disease research?
Yes, our models are relevant for both early- and late-stage Parkinson’s disease research. Models using dopaminergic neurons are typically suited for studying early-stage disease, while cortical neuron models are often more relevant for late-stage disease.
What assays can be run on Parkinson’s disease models?
We offer a broad range of functional and phenotypic assays, including multi-electrode array (MEA) recordings, Seahorse metabolic assays, high-content imaging, targeted genetic modifications, and alpha-synuclein aggregation assays.
How does alpha-synuclein aggregation contribute to Parkinson’s disease in your models?
Alpha-synuclein aggregation in dopaminergic and cortical neurons is a key feature of Parkinson’s disease, driving neuronal dysfunction and degeneration. Our Parkinson’s disease models capture this pathology, enabling the study of disease mechanisms and testing of potential therapeutics. For more details on our specialized alpha-synuclein aggregation assays, see our Alpha-synuclein aggregation Assay page.
What fibrils are you using to induce α-synuclein aggregation?
We are using fibrils generated from our own purified recombinant human wildtype α-synuclein monomer based on protocols developed in collaboration with experts within the field. The fibrils have been thoroughly QCed for α-synuclein purity and their ability to robustly and reproducible induce seeding in neurons .
Contact us for a free consultation
Interested in learning how we can support your project or pipeline?
We´re always happy to chat.
For further information please contact Business Development Manager Jacob Mathias Bech on jmb@bioneer.dk or +4523202576
For further information please contact Business Development Manager Jacob Mathias Bech on jmb@bioneer.dk or +4523202576
