Abstract

Parkinson’s disease has increasing prevalence worldwide. Several genes were identified as involved in the disease so far (e.g., Park, SNCA, MAPT, PINK1 as well as several molecular pathways (e.g., alternative spicing, metal ion channels, inflammation) but there are still mainly unknown genes involved in the disease. I previously applied SOLID small and long RNA-Seq, junction and exon arrays on PD patient’s and matching control samples. Furthermore, model MPTP (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine) mice studies found similar patterns in functional groups of genes (using Kolmogorov-Smirnov- KS statistical method. Subsequently, Gene Ontology (GO) functional analysis of Biological Processes (BP) and molecular functions. Additionally, PD RNA expression datasets can be compared to those from other neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Motor neuron disease. Also, stem cells from patients can be studied in parallel for RNA expression pattern changes through RNA-Seq or Cerebro Spinal Fluid (CSF).

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