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Huntington's disease: a decade beyond gene discovery.
1Oregon Health & Science University, Campus Mail OP-32, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239-3098, USA. hogarthp@ohsu.edu
Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports
|August 22, 2003
Summary
Huntington's disease is a genetic neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement, cognition, and psychiatric function. Research advances are paving the way for new therapies to slow its progression.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Neurology
Background:
- Huntington's disease is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder.
- It is characterized by progressive motor, cognitive, and psychiatric impairments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advances in understanding Huntington's disease pathogenesis.
- To discuss the development of rational therapies.
Main Methods:
- Review of basic research following gene identification.
- Analysis of progress in understanding disease mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Identification of the mutant gene in 1993.
- Significant advances in understanding the pathogenesis of Huntington's disease.
Conclusions:
- Understanding disease pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective treatments.
- Current research aims to slow disease progression and delay onset.