Parkinson's Disease: Glucocerebrosidase 1 Mutation Severity Is Associated with CSF Alpha-Synuclein Profiles

Mutations in the gene glucocerebrosidase (GBA1) are specifically associated with alpha-synucleinopathies, namely, Parkinson's disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies. As disease-modifying treatment options such as alpha-synuclein lowering compounds are under way, patient stratification according to alpha-synuclein-specific enrichment strategies, possibly reflected by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) profiles, is a much needed prerequisite.

Are GBA1 mutations associated with a CSF alpha-synuclein profile in PD?

Screening of the GBA1 gene and analysis of CSF levels of total alpha-synuclein were performed in 80 PD_GBA , 80 PD_GBA __wildtype and 39 healthy controls cross-sectionally. Subgroup analyses based on mutation severity was done for PD_GBA .

Patients carrying severe GBA1 mutations showed (1) an earlier age at onset, (2) more pronounced cognitive decline and higher prevalence of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, and (3) reduced CSF levels of total alpha-synuclein.

The effects of GBA1 mutations on CSF alpha-synuclein profiles and phenotypical characteristics seem dependent on GBA1 mutation severity. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.