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A Step Forward 6 Nov 98 At least one variant of PD occurs in familial clusters and hence strongly supports the genetics theory of PD origin. But many studies showing correlation with rural living, well water, and pesticide/herbicide exposure support the environmental theory. Now there is a clear link between the two. The body makes a family of enzymes called glutathione transferases, which metabolize (detoxify) foreign poisons such as pesticides, at the blood-brain barrier. Those enzymes occasionally appear as ineffectual mutants. A recent paper and editorial comment in The Lancet* report a survey of 95 PD patients and 95 healthy controls, for both toxic exposure and presence of mutant genes for glutathione transferase. Those subjects positive in both respects were far more likely to have PD than any of the other subject groups. This result suggests that genetic mutation of glutathione transferase may influence response to neurotoxins, and thus explain the susceptibility of some people but not others to the parkinsonism-inducing effects of pesticides. If the suggestion is correct, it may illuminate not only the origins of PD, but also the path toward a possible cure. *Menegon A et al; Lancet, 24 October 1998:1344-1346, and Golbe L; Lancet, 23 October 1998:1328-1329. Cheers, Joe -- J. R. Bruman (818) 789-3694 3527 Cody Road Sherman Oaks, CA 91403-5013