Editor's Choice Main Category: Genetics Also Included In: Neurology / Neuroscience Article Date: 03 Aug 2012 - 15:00 PDT

Current ratings for: Body Tremors Have A Genetic Cause

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Researchers and clinicians have investigated for years as to why this shaking occurs, but have so far remained unsuccessful. Even though scientists know that the problem is related to parts of the brain that control certain muscles, they have been unable to identify the exact cause for this malfunction in the nervous system of those affected by ET. Strong evidence of years of research suggested that the disease is due to genetics but until now researchers have been unable to identify the actual genetic link.

The fact that mutations in a gene called FUS (Fused in Sarcoma) cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a nerve cell disease in the brain and spinal cord that controls voluntary muscle movement, is already known amongst scientists. However, the new study was able to successfully identify mutations that cause ET in FUS, and also managed to provide evidence that the disease mechanisms for ET and ALS FUS mutations are different.

Leading author Dr. Nancy Merner, explained:

Her clinical focus is shared by her other team members. Dr. Guy Rouleau declared:

Dr. Patrick Dion, another key researcher on this project, added: "There is currently a lack of consensus on the diagnostic criteria of ET thus a genetic diagnosis can be beneficial, especially for familial cases. Transitioning to a genetic diagnosis would cut down on ET misdiagnosis."

37-50% of individual cases are misdiagnosed.

Affected individuals usually feel embarrassed or annoyed at the tremors that impact their everyday tasks like eating, writing, working, or drinking as these tremors most often affect the hands and make it difficult for those affected to hold or use small objects.

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Body Tremors Have A Genetic Cause