Genetic Analysis of Parkinson's Disease

Individuals, and where possible multiple family members, from families with inherited Parkinson's disease will be enrolled. We will also be enrolling people with sporadic Parkinson's disease. Known disease genes will be sequenced to look for mutations. In the event that no mutations are detected and there are samples from multiple family members, linkage analysis will be undertaken in an effort to identify a region or regions of the genome harboring defective genes that cause inherited Parkinson's disease. Candidate genes that reside in regions linked to the disease will be sequenced in effort to find mutations responsible for the disease. Genetic linkage studies will include all available, informative family members, while gene sequence analysis will be performed on affected individuals and spousal controls. In the event that we identify a mutation of clear pathogenicity in one of the known Parkinson's genes, we will contact all participating family members to notify them of the discovery of the gene that causes PD in their family and offer them individual counseling and testing in a CLIA approved lab. To assess any impact caused by the offer and subsequent pursuit of genetic testing we will be administering a questionnaire assessing psychological well-being prior to and following testing.