Cell Biology and Pathophysiology of α-Synuclein

Α-Synuclein is an abundant neuronal protein that is highly enriched in presynaptic nerve terminals. Genetics and neuropathology studies link α-synuclein to Parkinson's disease (PD) and other neurodegenerative disorders. Accumulation of misfolded oligomers and larger aggregates of α-synuclein defines multiple neurodegenerative diseases called synucleinopathies, but the mechanisms by which α-synuclein acts in neurodegeneration are unknown. Moreover, the normal cellular function of α-synuclein remains debated. In this perspective, we review the structural characteristics of α-synuclein, its developmental expression pattern, its cellular and subcellular localization, and its function in neurons. We also discuss…

• AA
  Alzheimer's Association
• AF
  American Federation for Aging Research
• AP
  American Parkinson Disease Association
• LL
  Leon Levy Foundation
• NI
  National Institute on Aging
• NI
  National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

  Award: NS094733