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Huntington’s Disease: Understanding the Genetic Condition and the Research at Huntington’s Disease Center of Excellence
Huntington’s disease (HD) is a devastating, hereditary, degenerative brain disorder for which there is currently no cure. It affects a person’s functional abilities and usually results in movement, cognitive, and psychiatric disorders. HD is a complex disease, and the Huntington’s Disease Center of Excellence (HD-COE) is at the forefront of advancing research, providing patient care, and disseminating information about this condition. In this article, we will explore the genetic basis of Huntington’s disease, the work being done at HD-COE, and the latest developments in Huntington’s disease research.

Genetic Basis of Huntington’s Disease
Huntington’s disease is caused by a mutation in the HTT gene (huntingtin gene) on chromosome 4. This mutation involves a repetition of a DNA segment called a CAG triplet repeat. The normal CAG repeat range is between 10 and 35, but in individuals with Huntington’s disease, the CAG repeats are expanded, usually beyond 36. The exact mechanisms by which these expanded repeats lead to the symptoms of Huntington’s disease are still not fully understood, but researchers believe that the mutated huntingtin protein disrupts various cellular processes, leading to the neuronal damage and progressive neurodegeneration seen in HD.

Research at Huntington’s Disease Center of Excellence
The Huntington’s Disease Center of Excellence is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by HD through comprehensive care, research, and education. The center brings together multidisciplinary teams of experts, including neurologists, genetic counselors, social workers, and researchers to provide holistic care and support for HD patients and their families. One of the primary focuses of the center is clinical research aimed at developing new treatments and interventions to slow the progression of Huntington’s disease and improve quality of life for those affected.

The center’s research initiatives encompass a wide range of approaches, including genetic studies to better understand the underlying mechanisms of Huntington’s disease, clinical trials of potential therapies, and the exploration of novel biomarkers for early diagnosis and disease monitoring. In addition, the center is actively involved in collaborative efforts with other research institutions and pharmaceutical companies to advance the development of targeted treatments for HD. The ultimate goal is to find a cure for Huntington’s disease, and the HD-COE is playing a crucial role in driving this research forward.

Latest Developments in Huntington’s Disease Research
Recent years have seen significant advancements in