Mechanisms of Alpha-synuclein Aggregation and Toxicity

Abstract

Alpha-synuclein is a protein implicated in the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease. The purpose of this proposal is to study the regulation of synuclein aggregation by metals, the interaction of synuclein with other proteins associated with its pathophysiology and the effects of aggregated alpha-synuclein on the function of neuronal mitochondria. During the current year, we have identified several novel interactions of Alpha-synuclein, including binding to the proteasome and selective inhibition of Mitochondrial complex 1. We have also identified a number of novel pathological changes associated with alpha-synuclein aggregation, including phosphorylation of tau protein and up-regulation of DJ-1 protein. Finally, our studies identify novel chemical and molecular strategies for inhibiting toxicity induced by aggregated alpha-synuclein.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 2004
Accession Number
ADA467856

Entities

People

  • Benjamin Wolozin

Organizations

  • Boston University

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Brain
  • Cell Physiological Processes
  • Cells
  • Chemical Synthesis
  • Chemistry
  • Genetic Engineering
  • Genetics
  • Medical Personnel
  • Neurodegeneration
  • Neurons
  • Parkinson'S Disease
  • Proteins
  • Proteomics

Fields of Study

  • Biology

Readers

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