• Journal of Genetic Medicine
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• v.4 no.2
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• pp.115-121
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• 2007

Hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy (HMSN; Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, CMT) was first described by Charcot and Marie in France and, independently, by Tooth in England in 1886. HMSN is the most common form of inherited motor and sensory neuropathy, and is a genetically heterogeneous disorder of the peripheral nervous system. Using positional cloning methods, the chromosomal localization (locus) of more than 40 inherited peripheral neuropathies was found in the last 15 years. However, these genetic analyses also show that many entities do not show linkage to the known loci. This issue deals with a clinical survey of inherited peripheral neuropathies regarding diagnostic approaches based on the molecular findings.

• Journal of Genetic Medicine
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• v.6 no.1
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• pp.25-37
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• 2009

Hereditary peripheral neuropathies can be categorized as hereditary motor and sensory neuropathies (HMSN), hereditary motor neuropathies (HMN), and hereditary sensory neuropathies (HSN). HMSN, HMN, and HSN are further subdivided into several subtypes. Here, we review the most recent findings in the molecular diagnosis and therapeutic strategy for hereditary peripheral neuropathies. The products of genes associated with hereditary peripheral neuropathy phenotypes are important for neuronal structure maintenance, axonal transport, nerve signal transduction, and functions related to the cellular integrity. Identifying the molecular basis of hereditary peripheral neuropathy and studying the relevant genes and their functions is important to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms of these neurodegenerative disorders, as well as the processes involved in the normal development and function of the peripheral nervous system. These advances and the better understanding of the pathogenesis of peripheral neuropathies represent a challenge for the diagnoses and managements of hereditary peripheral neuropathy patients in developing future supportive and curative therapies.