Abstract: This invention pertains to development of a new animal model for Parkinson's Disease (PD) and to the discovery that elevated monoamine oxygenase B (MOA-B) expression and/or activity is a strong prognostic indicator for the disease. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, methods are provided for identifying a mammal at risk for Parkinson's disease. The methods typically involve determining level of expression or activity of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) in a sample from the mammal wherein an elevated level of MAO-B expression and/or activity as compared to a control (reference) is an indicator that the mammal has an increased likelihood of developing Parkinson's disease.

Abstract: This invention pertains to the discovery that fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) stimulates neurogenesis, induces migration of newborn cells into the striatum and cortex, is neuroprotective, and significantly extends the lifespan mammals suffering from neurodegenerative conditions (e.g., Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, etc.). In certain embodiments this invention provides a method of promoting neurogenesis, neuroprotection and/or survival in a mammal having a neurodegenerative disease by upregulating expression or availability of endogenous fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) in said mammal; and/or administering FGF2 or an FGF2 mutein to the mammal in an amount sufficient to promote neurogenesis, neuroprotection and/or survival of the mammal.

Abstract: An online method and system permits entities to arrange for the movement of a good from a first location to a second location, particularly for a good that has physical characteristics that do not permit economical shipment by overnight mail. An example of such an item is a used and/or new vehicle that must be shipped from one location to another location.