The recent identification of several genes and gene loci linked to familial forms of Parkinson's disease (PD) has contributed significantly to our understanding of the genetic contribution in PD. Although the etiology of sporadic PD remains unknown, it is currently assumed that genetic susceptibilities may be involved. The advent of genome-wide scanning techniques has now made it possible to conduct complete genome screens for linkage in PD in multigenerational parkinsonian kindreds. Such studies undoubtedly will be instrumental in establishing the susceptibility genes involved in idiopathic PD. This article reviews the recent advances in the genetics of PD.