Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) inhibitors for Parkinson's disease: a patent review of the literature to date.

Introduction: Nearly two decades after leucine rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) was discovered as a genetic determinant of Parkinson's disease (PD), LRRK2 has emerged a priority therapeutic target in PD and inhibition of its activity is hypothesized to be beneficial.

Areas covered: LRRK2 targeting agents, in particular kinase inhibitors and agents reducing LRRK2 expression show promise in model systems and have progressed to phase I and phase II clinical testing for PD. Several additional targeting strategies for LRRK2 are emerging, based on promoting specific 'healthy' LRRK2 quaternary structures, heteromeric complexes and conformations.

Expert opinion: It can be expected that LRRK2 targeting strategies may proceed to phase III clinical testing for PD in the next five years, allowing the field to discover the real clinical value of LRRK2 targeting strategies.