Genetic association study of synphilin-1 in idiopathic Parkinson's disease Mar 22, 2008
With the discovery of missense and multiplication mutations in the alpha-synuclein gene (SNCA) in familial parkinsonism, Lewy inclusions were found to stain intensely with antibodies raised against the protein. Yeast-two-hybrid studies identified synphilin-1 as an interacting partner of alpha-synuclein, and both proteins show co-immunolocalization in a subset of Lewy body inclusions. (BioMed Central)
Treatment For Alcoholism Could Be Selected Based On Genetics Oct 26, 2007
27, 2007) The protein alpha synuclein (SNCA) plays an important role in the regulation of dopamine function. Craving is a common symptom in alcoholics. (Science Daily)
Tumor-free Breast Tissue Can Have Precancerous Changes Jan 13, 2007
In addition, the researchers identified three other genes (called CYP26A1, KCNAB1 and SNCA) that were highly methylated in about one-third to nearly one-half of the breast tumors. Again to our surprise, we found that in 70 percent of cases, when these genes were highly methylated in tumor cells, they were also highly methylated in the adjacent normal tissue, says Yan. (Science Daily)
Study: Parkinson's Gene Ups Risk 50% Aug 9, 2006
The researchers focused on the gene that encodes a protein called alpha-synuclein or SNCA. Although only a small fraction of Parkinson's patients have SNCA gene mutations, all patients with Parkinson's disease have abnormal amounts of SNCA protein in their brains ... The study's author's estimate that the SNCA gene mutation accounts for 3 percent of the cause of Parkinson's disease. (CBS News)
Gene to Blame for Some Parkinson's Cases Aug 9, 2006
The alpha-synuclein (SNCA) gene might also be a key player in a wider range of Parkinson's cases, the researchers said. "Common variants in the SNCA gene are associated with an increased risk for Parkinson's disease," said lead researcher Dr. Demetrius M. Maraganore, from the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine ... In their study, the researchers examined whether variability in the dinucleotide repeat sequence (REP1) of the SNCA gene was associated with the risk of Parkinson's. (Health-Finder)
