Human Aging and in Vivo Noradrenergic System

The main goal of this research proposal is to provide, for the first time in humans, a wider understanding of the role of the noradrenergic system both in health and illness (Parkinson's disease) through the use of a newly developed radiotracer (11Carbon \[11C\]Yohimbine) visualizing alpha-2 (α2) adrenergic receptors (AR) combined with cutting-edge technology, the hybrid positron emission tomography (PET)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. The secondary aim of this study will be to determine whether the expected age- and Parkinson's disease (PD)-related changes in the noradrenergic system are paralleled by changes in neuropsychological performances (such as cognitive, motor and/or olfactory abilities).