Though few people get Parkinson's directly from a genetic mutation, what researchers learn from the biology of people with these mutations could lead to new therapies that could help all those with the disease. Individuals with certain genetic mutations -- with and without Parkinson's disease -- can help speed discovery and be part of the genetics revolution under way in Parkinson's research.
In this podcast, Barbara and Jay Robinson discuss their decision to participate in Parkinson's genetics research. Both carry genetic mutations associated with PD. Although neither has the disease, they both have a family history of Parkinson's, making them perfect candidates for genetic research.
"My father had Parkinson's. I think pretty much in his mid-70s is when we became aware and it presented itself, and I saw how it affected him," says Jay. "And I became sensitized to the importance and the need to get involved, if possible, in research of things that hopefully can be prevented."
"If I'm not willing to step up and volunteer myself to get knowledge and data then nothing is ever going to change," added Barbara. "If we want to find a cure we have to do the footwork in order to get there, and so one foot in front of the other, you've got to do what you can."
Learn more about Parkinson's genetics and ask our expert panelists your questions in our upcoming Third Thursdays webinar on Thursday, February 16 at 12 p.m. ET.