Molecular Genetics of Tourette Syndrome

Abstract

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by chronic motor and vocal tics, which fluctuate over time. The molecular genetics of TS is supported by genetic epidemiology studies, which strongly suggest the presence of susceptibility genes for TS. Epidemiologic family, segregation and linkage studies, as well as candidate gene studies, have yielded limited specific results to date, however, pathophysiology models that support a molecular genetics approach in TS are emerging. Whole‐genome approaches, including genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) and whole‐genome sequencing, may yield more definitive genomic findings. Uncovering the biological substrate of TS will spur the development of novel, more precisely targeted, treatments for this disabling disorder.