LRRK2 levels in immune cells are increased in Parkinson’s disease

Abstract

Immune system regulation: A known suspect High levels of leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) in immune cells disrupt immune system function in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Mutations in LRRK2 are the most common genetic cause of PD. Although LRRK2 is found in many immune cells, research efforts have focussed on determining its effects on neuronal function. Malu G. Tansey at Emory University, USA, and colleagues compared the levels and function of LRKK2 in immune cells from 40 late-onset PD patients and 32 age- and environment-matched healthy controls. The cells from PD patients had higher levels of LRKK2 protein and produced more pro-inflammatory molecules in response to stimulation than the control cells. As exacerbated inflammatory responses are known to aggravate neurodegeneration, monitoring LRKK2 levels may aid the assessment of disease progression in both inherited and sporadic cases of PD.