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We are focused on studying genetic disorders of brain, nerve & muscle. Through better understanding of neurological disorders will come better diagnoses and treatments. |
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ying-hui fu's & louis ptáček's |
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parkinson's disease Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a slowly progressive, chronic neurological condition that affects a small area of the brain, the midbrain. Degeneration of cells in this region of the brain results in a reduction of the chemical dopamine. A decrease in dopamine produces signs of Parkinson's disease that may include a resting tremor of one or both hands, slowness of body movement, rigidity of limbs, and gait or balance problems. Most people who develop Parkinson's disease have "Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease" meaning that the cause of the disease is unknown. Once considered non-genetic in etiology, within certain families there are multiple individuals with Parkinson’s disease. This suggests that the disease may be genetically inherited in those families. Our Research By studying families affected by Parkinson’s disease, we hope to localize and eventually clone the disease-causing gene for Parkinson’s disease. This approach will not only facilitate a greater understanding of this disease but hopefully provide greater insight into the genetic of neurodegeneration in general. Our Laboratories Sometimes, symptoms caused by other medical conditions can mimic the effect of genetic mutations. In such cases, diagnosis and treatment of the condition is most effectively provided through traditional medical channels. Academic research laboratories such as ours do not usually provide these services; rather we are focused on genetic discoveries we hope will lead to defining these future diagnostic and treatment pathways. Study Status We are not actively collecting samples of PD at this time. However, research directions change with every new discovery. If you would like to be considered for future research studies with PD, please contact the Clinical Coordinator listed below. What does Study Participation Involve? 1. As an initial screening process, you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire describing your family disease history. This questionnaire is used to help researchers assess your medical condition. 2. If your condition appears to match the condition currently under study, you may be asked to submit additional information including medical records and/or test results that will be used in the medical evaluation. 3. You will be asked to donate a blood sample (approximately 2-3 tablespoons) which we will use to isolate the DNA that we study. Contact Kristin Wong, Clinical Coordinator University of California San Francisco Department of Neurology, MC 2922 1550 Fourth St., Room 546 San Francisco, CA 94158-2324 USA Tel: +1.415.502.3976 Fax: +1.415.502.5641 Email: kristin.wong2@ucsf.edu |
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Quick Links: For more information about Parkinson's Disease, please visit the following sites: American Parkinson Disease Association Bachmann-Strauss Dystonia & Parkinson Disease Foundation MedlinePlus: Parkinson's Disease National Organization for Rare Disorders |
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circadian rhythm & sleep | episodic diseases | neurodegeneration |
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UCSF - Department of Neurology,
MC 2922 1550 Fourth St., Room 548 San Francisco, CA 94158-2324 USA tel: +1.415.502.5614 fax: +1.415.502.5641 |
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If you experience any difficulties with this site, please email our web developer. The University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, +1.415.476.9000 Copyright © 2004-2006 The Regents of the University of California. All Rights Reserved. |
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