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LRRK2 gene
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Gene

LRRK2 gene

The LRRK2 gene provides instructions for making the protein dardarin, which is involved in cellular signaling and structural organization.

Normal Function

The LRRK2 gene provides instructions for making a protein called dardarin. This protein is active in the brain and other tissues. Dardarin contains a leucine-rich region that facilitates protein-protein interactions, such as transmitting signals or helping assemble the cell's structural framework (cytoskeleton). Additionally, dardarin possesses two enzyme functions:

  • Kinase activity: Assists in phosphorylation, an essential step in turning cell activities on and off.
  • GTPase activity: Associated with the ROC domain, this function helps control the overall shape of the protein.

Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes

Parkinson's disease

More than 100 LRRK2 gene mutations have been identified in families with late-onset Parkinson's disease. These mutations affect the structure and function of the dardarin protein. Notable findings include:

  • Arg1441Gly (R1441G): A relatively common cause of Parkinson's disease in the Basque region. The name "dardarin" is derived from the Basque word for "tremor."
  • Gly2019Ser (G2019S): A common mutation found in 3 to 7 percent of familial Parkinson's cases, with the highest incidence among North African Arabs and Ashkenazi Jewish populations.
  • Gly2385Arg (G2385R): Identified in Chinese and Japanese populations, this mutation appears to increase the risk of Parkinson's disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

While LRRK2-associated Parkinson's shares the classic motor features of typical late-onset Parkinson's—including tremor, bradykinesia, and rigidity, as well as an excellent initial response to levodopa—patients often experience a slightly slower motor progression. Additionally, carriers frequently have a lower incidence of severe non-motor complications such as early cognitive impairment, prominent autonomic failure, and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder.
No. LRRK2 mutations exhibit age-dependent, incomplete penetrance, which means carrying the mutation does not guarantee disease onset. For the common G2019S variant, the lifetime risk of developing motor Parkinson's symptoms by age 80 is estimated at roughly 25 to 40 percent, meaning that a significant proportion of mutation carriers live a normal lifespan without ever developing the disorder.
Because pathogenic LRRK2 mutations generally result in an abnormal increase in dardarin kinase activity, researchers have developed
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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