Seminar

Genetic analysis of Parkinson disease genes in Drosophila

Dr. Alex Whitworth

The causes of Parkinson disease (PD) are currently unknown, however, investigation of genes linked to inherited forms of PD have provided valuable insight into possible pathogenic events. We are using the powerful genetic approaches in Drosophila to elucidate the normal and pathological function of Drosophila orthologues of PD-related genes in vivo. Currently we are focussed on the functions of the recently identified PINK1/Parkin pathway. Our current genetic studies have identified new components of this pathway and have begun to reveal its role in preventing neurodegeneration by mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, our genetic analyses have highlighted potential protective mechanisms that we are investigating as possible therapeutic avenues for drug interventions.