Rebecca Bird reports on the emerging role of whole genome sequencing in young onset Parkinson’s disease management.

Whole genome sequencing is a method used to read and interpret the complete DNA sequence of a person's genetic material, known as their genome. To sequence a genome, scientists obtain a sample of DNA, typically from blood, saliva or tissue samples. They then use special equipment and chemical processes to read the DNA sequence, which is essentially the order of the building blocks that make up the DNA molecule. The sequence data is then assembled using powerful computer algorithms to generate a complete genome sequence. The results can provide insights into a person’s physical characteristics, behaviour, drug response and susceptibility to disease. Gaynor Edwards, founder of Spotlight YOPD, believes that whole genome sequencing may play a significant role in predicting and diagnosing young onset Parkinson’s disease. “You're not going to find a cure unless you've got the cause, and you're not going to find the cause unless you've got the research,” she told Neuro Rehab Times.