Parkinson disease is a common neurodegenerative disorder which ranges from fully genetic (Mendelian) forms to forms with more subtle genetic origin. Molecular genetics has been giving important contributions to the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms which lead to the disease by identifying genes mutated in the genetic forms.

This project “DNA Bank” consists in collecting and storing DNA samples from a large number of PD patients attending the Parkinson Institute. DNA and matching clinical and follow-up information will be rendered anonymous and made available to the research community for genetic investigations of PD. The value of the DNA Bank is given by its large size and by the detailed medical records corresponding to each single DNA sample. These two conditions are in fact essential for the success of any kind of genetic study.

In more selected cases, other biological samples such as RNA, serum, fibroblast or lymphoblast cell lines are collected.

The DNA Bank has been funded by the Italian Telethon Foundation since 2003 (grant number GTB7001) and is part of the Telethon Genetic Biobank Network.

For further details about "DNA Bank" project, information on the management and organization of the Bank, the type and number of samples collected and the contact address, follow for the "scientist and collaborators " link on the left side menu.