Is REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) hereditary?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) can have a genetic component. Research shows that specific gene variants—particularly those affecting the GBA and SNCA genes—are associated with a higher risk of developing RBD. While genetics alone don't determine whether someone will develop the disorder, a family history of RBD, Parkinson's disease, or other synucleinopathies may increase susceptibility. Environmental and neurological factors also play significant roles.

If you're experiencing symptoms like acting out dreams, sudden movements during sleep, or unexplained nighttime disturbances, it's worth investigating further. Understanding the potential causes—genetic or otherwise—can help you take informed next steps. Try this free, instant, online symptom check to gain clarity on what may be behind your symptoms and how to move forward with confidence.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Explanation

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, or RBD, might be influenced by genetics. Research has found that specific genetic variants can be associated with RBD. For example, one study highlights a connection between risk variants at the α-synuclein locus and RBD. Another study points out the association of a non-coding variant, GBA1 rs3115534, with RBD.

α-synuclein locus: This is a specific area in our genes that has been linked to RBD. People with certain variants in this area might have a higher risk of experiencing RBD.
GBA1 rs3115534 variant: This is another genetic change that researchers have found to be connected to RBD. It suggests that changes not directly coding for proteins can still affect the likelihood of developing RBD.

Overall, while not everyone with these genetic variants will have RBD, these findings suggest that there is a hereditary aspect to the disorder. If you're experiencing unusual sleep behaviors or suspect you might have RBD, you can take a free symptom checker test to help identify potential concerns. This means that if someone in your family has RBD, there might be a higher chance for others in the family to have it too.

(References)

Bjørnarå KA, Pihlstrøm L, Dietrichs E, & Toft M. (2018). Risk variants of the α-synuclein locus and REM sleep .... BMC neurology, 29466944.
Ojo OO, Bandres-Ciga S, Makarious MB, Crea PW, Hernandez DG, Houlden H, et al. (2023). The non-coding GBA1 rs3115534 variant is associated .... medRxiv : the preprint server for health sciences, 38076854.
Ojo OO, Bandres-Ciga S, Makarious MB, Crea PW, Hernandez DG, Houlden H, et al. (2024). GBA1 rs3115534 Is Associated with REM Sleep Behavior .... Movement disorders : official journal of the Movement Disorder Society, 38390630.

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