Causal gene in hereditary spastic paraplegia identified
A disease-causing gene in hereditary spastic paraplegia bolsters the theory of altered lipid processing as a shared cause in motor neuron diseases.
Genetic and cellular studies, led by Andrew Crosby and Emma Baple of the University of Exeter (UK), have identified a gene that causes the development of hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) when mutated. The findings support previously published thinking that motor neuron degenerative diseases (MNDs) share the common cause of altered lipid processing in brain cells. This theory provides the basis for developing new diagnostic approaches and treatments for MNDs.† Currently there are no single diagnostic tests or treatments available.
