Objective/Rationale:
Alterations in HSPA9 gene expression has been described in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Ongoing studies suggest the expression of CRP40, a gene product of HSPA9, in the blood platelets of PD patients is decreased and may represent a novel blood biomarker. The objective of this project is to investigate whole-blood CRP40 expression as a potential diagnostic of Parkinson’s disease.
Project Description:
We will evaluate the expression of CRP40 in samples collected and archived through the The Michael J. Fox Foundation BioFIND clinical study. This case-control study will compare 30 PD cases and 30 controls in an effort to determine the legitimacy of the objective. Furthermore, gene expression levels will be compared to clinical parameters to investigate associations between expression and phenotypic penetrance.
Relevance to Diagnosis/Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease:
We will confirm (or refute) an association between CRP40 expression and PD disease state. If confirmed, this pilot study will provide the basis for a larger population assessment to determine the efficacy of this test as a diagnostic at disease onset and as a biomarker of disease progression and treatment.
Anticipated Outcome:
This investigation will resolve the question of whether CRP40 gene expression is a biomarker associated with PD. We anticipate this study will progress into a larger analysis directed towards clinical translation and utility.