Alpha Synuclein, cellular dysfunction and Parkinson disease

National Institute On Aging

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

Our work on a-synuclein is currently focussed on applying large scale screening approaches to understand the pathobiology associated with this protein, which is now known to not only be a marker of disease but also plays an active role in disease progression. We have spent time evaluating candidate molecules that may be involved in the transfer of a-synuclein between cells, which is robustly modeled in cells and animals. We collaborated in publishing a comprehensive evaluation of one proposed mediator of a-synuclein uptake that was, unfortunately, negative. We continue to work on additional mechanisms by which protein transfer may occur including using methods we have recently published.