Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by a combination of genetic mutations and environmental factors. Genes like SNCA, LRRK2, and others are linked to the disease, while environmental exposures to toxins and certain chemicals can increase the risk.
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects dopaminergic neurons in the brain. The exact cause of PD is unknown, but it’s believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors345.
Several genes have been linked to PD, including SNCA, LRRK2, PARK2, PARK7, PINK1, and others. Mutations in these genes can lead to the disease, especially in early-onset cases. For instance, LRRK2 mutations have been implicated in about 10% of inherited forms of PD and in about 4% of patients with no family history of the disease.
Environmental factors also play a significant role. Exposure to certain chemicals, toxins, and metals, as well as traumatic brain injury, have been associated with an increased risk of PD. For example, exposure to pesticides and herbicides, such as paraquat, has been strongly linked to PD.
However, the interaction between genetics and the environment can be complex. Some people may have a genetic makeup that makes them more vulnerable to the effects of toxic substances than others. Therefore, a combination of these factors may trigger biological changes that ultimately lead to PD.