LIPAD - LRRK2 International Parkinson's Disease Study

The study aims to identify and systematically characterize Parkinson's patients with mutations in the LRRK2 gene. In about 90% of Parkinson's patients the cause of the disease is unclear. Based on current knowledge, it can be assumed that there are several causes and that the causes may be differ between patients; this makes research into the pathogenesis and possible therapies very difficult. In the case of monogenic Parkinson's diseases, which are due to changes in one gene (e.g. LRRK2), the function of the gene and possible disease mechanisms can be investigated. LRRK2-associated Parkinson's syndrome is clinically indistinguishable from idiopathic Parkinson's disease. It is inherited autosomal dominant, that means if one of the two gene copies is altered, the disease occurs. However, the disease does not occur in every mutation carrier, the penetrance is reduced and the mechanisms for that are still unclear. Ideally, knowledge of what influences penetrance could make it possible to exert targeted influence and prevent the disease. The comprehensive investigation of mechanisms of reduced penetrance but also of the effects of the mutation itself requires systematic investigations of as many affected persons as possible. We therefore aim to identify 4,000 people internationally, of them 1,500 with LRRK2-associated Parkinson's syndrome, 500 with LRRK2-mutations but without Parkinson's symptoms, 500 without mutations and without Parkinson's symptoms, 500 Parkinson patients with mutations in other genes than LRRK2 and 1,000 patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease from the same populations. The participants will undergo a comprehensive survey on Parkinson's symptoms, concomitant diseases, environmental factors and medication and there is the possibility of more detailed genetic examinations. Participants will be asked to donate samples of blood, urine and household dust.