(HealthDay News) -- Scientists say they've discovered how a gene mutation linked to an inherited form of Parkinson's disease damages the brain.

The LRRK2 gene produces malfunctioning proteins that stunt the normal growth and branching of dopamine-producing neurons, which eventually causes them to die, concludes the Columbia University study.

The finding could lead to animal models that could be used to study this form of Parkinson's in an effort to develop new treatments for the disease.

The research was published Wednesday in the journal Neuron.

The New York City team created mutant LRRK2 proteins and introduced them into laboratory-cultured neurons, resulting in reduced growth and branching of the neurons. This growth and branching is essential in order for the cells to establish and maintain connections with one another within the brain's circuitry.

Similar effects were seen when mutant LRRK2 proteins were introduced into the brains of adult and embryonic rats, the researchers say.

More information

We Move has more about Parkinson's disease.