Genetic Insights and Advances in Parkinson’s Disease: Paradigms and Future Directions

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms, primarily resulting from the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and the accumulation of intracellular protein aggregates known as Lewy bodies. Genetic research has unveiled critical insights into both familial and sporadic cases of PD, with mutations in genes such as SNCA and LRRK2 playing pivotal roles in disease pathogenesis. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified over 90 risk loci, including the GBA gene, highlighting the complex genetic landscape of PD and deepening our understanding of disease susceptibility, onset, and progression. Furthermore, mitochondrial genetics and epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and non-coding RNAs, have emerged as significant contributors to PD pathology. Technological advancements, including multi-omics approaches and artificial intelligence (AI), have furthered genetic research, enabling more precise predictions of genetic risk and the discovery of novel therapeutic targets. As genetic research continues to evolve, it holds the potential to revolutionize PD treatment through personalized medicine, gene therapy, and improved diagnostic accuracy. However, ethical considerations and the necessity for global collaboration remain integral to harnessing these advances for effective patient care. This review highlights recent genetic discoveries in PD, paradigm shifts in understanding its genetic architecture, and future directions aimed at developing targeted therapeutic interventions.

Keywords: Parkinson’s Disease, Genome-Wide Association Studies, Genetic Landscape.