Huntington’s Disease Associated Genes: Molecular Basis of Disease and Possible New Targets for Treatment

Diverse molecular defects in Huntington's Disease (HD) have been identified since the discovery of Huntingtin (HTT) gene mutated in the diseasein1993. Presently, there is no cure for the disease. To identify genes involved in HD pathogenesis, we collate data from diverse sources and using stringent criteria collected 523 HD associated genes. Enrichment analysis with these proteins revealed that diverse biological processes and pathways like gene expression, apoptosis, proteasomal degradation, glucose/carbohydrate metabolism, known to involve in HD pathogenesis, were significantly enriched. HD associated genes were significantly over represented in biological processes like cell cycle and differentiation indicating their possible role in HD pathogenesis. Comparisons of HD associated genes with targets of FDA approved drugs and probable protein targets having similar properties as that of FDA approved protein targets of drugs, we identified 49 HD associated genes that could be new probable drug targets. HD associated genes collected here will be useful to decipher molecular basis of HD including regulation of these genes and new targets for the treatment of presently incurable devastating HD.