Unraveling the genetic MYSTERIES OF NEURODEGENERATION
Quinn Johnston is a former BioTrain intern who is now a research associate in the Cochran lab.
N eurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and other demen- tias, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), pose a significant global health burden. These devastat- ing diseases are characterized by the progressive damage and loss of brain cells that lead to declines in cognitive function, movement, and other bodily functions over time. The exact causes of these diseases are unknown but are believed to be a combi- nation of genetic and environmental factors. Understanding the genetic basis of these diseases is crucial for several reasons. Identifying specific
genetic markers associated with different neurodegenerative diseases can lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses. Genetic information also helps guide the development of targeted treatments. By understanding the specific molecular mechanisms underlying disease, researchers can also develop therapies that address the root cause of the disorder rather than just treating symptoms. While advances in genetic sequencing technologies have allowed researchers, including those at HudsonAlpha, to identify numerous genetic variations associated with these diseases, there’s still much to learn in the quest for earlier diagnostics and more effective treatments.
HUDSONALPHA INSTITUTE FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY
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