Genetic epidemiology of Parkinson’s disease (Consortium on Risk for Early-onset PD:  CORE-PD)

CORE-PD is a multicenter study being funded by the National Institutes of Health, directed by Karen Marder, MD, MPH, at Columbia University, New York City.

Marder and her research group have previously found that close family members of people with both early and late-onset Parkinson's disease (PD) have a threefold increased risk of PD compared to close family members of people without PD. Marder and her team are working with doctors at Rush on this new study that aims to identify the genetic factors that contribute to the development of early-onset PD, and to understand how these genetic factors interact with other genes and the environment.

Participation in the study involves a blood draw (to look for genetic factors associated with PD), questionnaires collecting information on family and medical history and a neurological examination. The study visit should take no more than one hour. The study is voluntary and confidential. The consent form stipulates that genetic research results are not released to study participants. However, it is hoped that information gained from this research will lead to a better understanding of the causes of PD, which may allow better approaches to treatment to be developed in the future.

You may be eligible to participate in this study if you:

• Have a diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease
• Had onset of symptoms at or before age 50
• Received your diagnosis from a neurologist

For more information about eligibilty, contact the CORE-PD study coordinator.