आईएसएसएन: 2155-9899
George T. Kannarkat and Malú G. Tansey
The Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) gene loci contains immune system-related genes involved in antigen presentation and in recent years, certain genetic variants in HLA genes have been associated with increased risk for late-onset Parkinson’s disease (PD), the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, in combination with pyrethroid pesticide exposure. The mechanisms behind this interaction are currently under investigation. Evidence that immune responses may confer and/or modulate risk and progression of PD is mounting. Therefore, a clear understanding of how the immune system plays a role in this and other neurodegenerative disorders will be critical for successful development of disease biomarkers, and therapeutic interventions to delay or ameliorate the course of the disease.