The WGCNA and WPPINA approaches allow prioritization of genes as a global functional unit. The WGCNA analysis suggested that 3 of the Coloc-prioritized genes (NUPL2, TMEM163, and ZRANB3) may be relevant for supporting functions associated with the ubiquitin proteasome system, neuronal development, and the chemical transmission at the synapse. The WPPINA analysis indicated that the proteins encoded by the Coloc-prioritized genes interact with mendelian PD and parkinsonism proteins, suggesting the existence of a common functional unit of genes and proteins—associated with the ERBB signaling pathways—that increases the risk for developing sporadic as well as familial PD.
