SGK1 may protect against Parkinson's disease

Researchers have discovered a gene that may protect patients at high-risk of Parkinson's disease.

Serum/glucocorticoid regulated kinase 1 (SGK1) protects against a high risk leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) mutation of Parkinson's disease, according to a new study by genetics company 23andMe, Inc.

Todd Sherer, CEO of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, stated: "The SGK1 discovery, while still in the early stage, is a promising outcome of this unique research platform, and holds potential to inform a therapeutic approach for Parkinson's."

The LRRK2 gene is recognised as a significant risk factor for inherited Parkinson's disease. In fact, it is thought to be the most common cause of inherited Parkinson's.

In a study at Indiana University, it was discovered that patients who had the LRRK2 mutation have longer disease duration but experience less severe symptoms.

This suggests that the gene mutation may be associated with slower disease progression.

For years it was believed that environmental factors were the primary cause of Parkinson's disease.

It wasn't until 1997 that the first gene associated with the disease was identified.

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