Collaborative Analysis of α-Synuclein Gene Promoter Variability and Parkinson Disease

Abstract

Parkinson disease is a common neurological condition associated with increased morbidity and reduced survival.^1-3 The origin of Parkinson disease remains largely elusive, but genetic factors may be important.^4,5 One of the most promising leads in the genetics of Parkinson disease is the potential role of the α-synuclein (SNCA) gene. Linkage studies have revealed several SNCA mutations that cause Parkinson disease, likely via amino-acid substitutions and configurational changes in the encoded protein.^6-8 α-Synuclein locus multiplication also causes Parkinson disease, likely via gene overexpression.^9-13