MDS 2021 | Genetic biomarkers could aid Parkinson’s disease diagnosis and guide treatment decisions

Genetic factors as diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers have been the focus of much research attention in recent years. Chin-Hsien Lin, MD, PhD, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, discusses LRRK2 and GBA, two of the most common Parkinson’s risk genes and thus, two strong candidates for Parkinson’s biomarkers. Several approaches to targeting the LRRK2 gene are under investigation in clinical trials, including LRRK2 kinase inhibitors and antisense oligonucleotides. Strategies to boost GBA kinase activity are also being assessed. These treatments have the potential to slow down disease progression, rather than only treating disease symptoms. In this way, knowing the underlying genetic background of an individual may help to guide their disease management. Additionally, since genetic factors of the etiology of PD may be present for decades before symptom onset, genetic biomarkers may aid early disease diagnosis. This interview took place during the 2021 International Congress of Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders.