OCTOBER 31 • 2019 | 51 R esearchers know muta- tions to the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, increasing a woman’ s chanc- es of getting breast cancer, are more common among Ashkenazic women than women in the general popu- lation. “Today, researchers are investigating another gene mutation, this time related to Parkinson’ s disease (PD), which may also be linked to the Ashkenazic population,” says Peter A. LeWitt, director of Parkinson’ s disease research at Henry Ford Hospital and neurology pro- fessor at Wayne State University School of Medicine. Parkinson’ s disease is a pro- gressive nervous disorder that affects movement. Symptoms start gradually, often with a slight tremor in one hand, and then become worse as the patient’ s condition pro- gresses. Although PD can’ t be cured, some medications may significantly improve its symptoms. Doctors may also suggest surgery to improve symptoms by regulating cer- tain regions of the brain. The cause of Parkinson’ s disease is unknown, but many researchers believe it is caused by a combination of factors, some based on genetics and others more influenced by environmental factors. However, because not everyone who carries these genetic mutations will get Parkinson’ s, it is thought other factors such as the environment (pesticides) and age (usually around age 60 or older) play an important role. Also, more men develop PD than women. “Over the past decade, researchers have identified a handful of genes in which genetic mutations greatly increase the risk,” LeWitt says. “The most common is the mutated version of kinase 2 (LRRK2), which is respon- sible for 1-2 percent of PD cases but is much higher in people with Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry.” Pharmaceutical compa- nies are interested in this gene because it produces an enzyme called a kinase — dozens of drugs that inhibit the activity of kinases have been approved in the last 30 years, primarily for cancer. Drug developers started working on inhibiting over- active kinases in neurode- generative and infectious diseases. One concern with this approach is the possible side effects from inhibiting LRRK2. “Today, there is no diag- nostic test for PD and no way continued on page 52 LeWitt Heath RUTHAN BRODSKY CONTRIBUTING WRITER ISTOCK Parkinson’s Link Ashkenazi Jews linked through gene mutations; researchers seek patients. Our Mission Comprehensive Breast Care is a surgical practice with 100% dedication to the care of the patient with breast disease. Whether benign or malignant, coordinated and efficient care plans are critical. Our mission is to navigate patients via evidence based 'care plans' to achieve a diagnosis and treatment plan. Clinical Services: High Risk Consultations | Genetic Risk | Surgery Clinical Trials | Multidisciplinary Care | Imaging & Diagnostic 4967 Crooks Road Suite 210 Troy Michigan, 48098 248-687-7300 | Fax: 248-687-7305 www.compbreastcare.com Promoting Wellness and Breast Health Drs. Linsey Gold and Eric Brown michigandermatologyinstitute.com Michigan Dermatology Institute just recently opened October 2019. The New Home of Cory J. Rubin, through the American Board of Dermatology. He has been practicing since 2014. Dr. Rubin graduated from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, PA. He trained at the University of Michigan, and specializes in treating all Skin Conditions including: Psoriasis, Acne, Atopic Dermatitis, Hair Loss, Rashes and detecting Skin Cancer. Dr. Rubin is also an Assistant Professor at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine (OUWBSOM). His mission statement at Michigan Dermatology Institute is to Provide Trust- worthy, High quality, patient-centered, evidence-based care for all patients. Dr. Rubin sees both adults and children. michiganderminstitute Michigan Dermatology Institute 2665 Elizabeth Lake Road Waterford 248-681-9541 CORY J. RUBIN, MD FAAD