Carbon Monoxide Could Offer New Parkinson's Treatment
Researchers are studying whether low-dose carbon monoxide may protect brain health in adults living with Parkinson's disease.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Asthma
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Researchers have identified low-dose carbon monoxide as a key chemical in cigarette smoke that may contribute to a lower risk of Parkinson's disease. Following these findings, a biotechnology company initiated a Phase 2a clinical trial in June 2026 to test the therapeutic potential of an oral drug designed to mimic this neuroprotective effect.
Why it matters
While smoking remains a leading cause of preventable illness, including 85 percent of lung cancer cases, its counterintuitive link to reduced Parkinson's risk has long intrigued scientists. This research aims to isolate the beneficial component of smoke to develop safe treatments for the 1.1 million Americans living with Parkinson's disease.
A study published in 2024 in npj Parkinson's Disease analyzed data from over 500,000 adults, linking low-dose carbon monoxide exposure to a reduced risk of Parkinson's development. This preclinical-style finding identifies a specific signaling mechanism, though clinical validation is ongoing.
The players
JAMA Neurology
A peer-reviewed medical journal published by the American Medical Association that covers research on the nervous system.
npj Parkinson's Disease
An open-access, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to research on the pathophysiology and treatment of Parkinson's disease.
The details
Human cells naturally produce small amounts of carbon monoxide, which serves as a signaling molecule. In controlled doses, this chemical appears to reduce oxidative stress and neuroinflammation while activating protective pathways in the brain. Researchers focused on this mechanism to explain historical observations that smokers consistently exhibited lower rates of Parkinson's disease.
Timeline
1959: Scientists first observed that regular smokers had a lower Parkinson's risk.
2024: A study published in npj Parkinson's Disease linked low-dose carbon monoxide to lower Parkinson's risk.
June 2026: A biotech company began a Phase 2a clinical trial for the oral drug HBI-002.
Health Landscape
This finding builds on the established, albeit paradoxical, historical observation that cigarette smoking is associated with a reduced incidence of Parkinson's disease. By isolating a specific chemical mechanism, researchers are shifting toward developing targeted, non-toxic therapies that leverage these neuroprotective pathways.
This research is in the early stages of clinical testing and does not change current care for Parkinson's disease. Any questions regarding new treatment approaches or clinical trial participation are important conversations to have with a neurologist or primary care physician.
The takeaway
While the link between low-dose carbon monoxide and neuroprotection is a significant scientific finding, it is essential to remember that cigarette smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals and carries severe health risks. Discuss any symptoms of neurological changes with your physician to monitor your long-term brain health.
Further reading
Learn more about ongoing developments in respiratory and neurological health research in our Asthma section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Popular Mechanics.
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