Work

Yeast Cells Provide Insight into Alpha-Synuclein Biology and Pathobiology

Year: 2003

Type: article

Abstract: Alpha-synuclein is implicated in several neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy, yet its functions remain obscure. When expressed in yeast, alpha-synuclein associated with the plasma membrane in a highly selective manner, before forming cytoplasmic inclusions through a concentration-dependent, nucleated process. Alpha-synuclein inhibited phospholipase D, induced lipid droplet accumulation, and affected vesicle trafficking. This readily manipulable system provides an opportunity to dissect the molecular pathways underlying normal alpha-synuclein biology and the pathogenic consequences of its misfolding.

Source: Science

DOI: 10.1126/science.1090439

Authors: Tiago Fleming Outeiro, Susan Lindquist

Institution: Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research

Language: English

Topic: Parkinson's Disease Mechanisms and Treatments

Subfield: Clinical Neurology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke