The alpha-synuclein oligomers activate nuclear factor of activated T-cell (NFAT) modulating synaptic homeostasis and apoptosis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Soluble oligomeric forms of alpha-synuclein (aSyn-O) are believed to be one of the main toxic species in Parkinson's disease (PD) leading to degeneration. aSyn-O can induce Ca²⁺ influx, over activating downstream pathways leading to PD phenotype. Calcineurin (CN), a phosphatase regulated by Ca²⁺ levels, activates NFAT transcription factors that are involved in the regulation of neuronal plasticity, growth, and survival.

Methods

Here, using a combination of cell toxicity and gene regulation assays performed in the presence of classical inhibitors of the NFAT/CN pathway, we investigate NFAT's role in neuronal degeneration induced by aSyn-O.

Results

aSyn-O are toxic to neurons leading to cell death, loss of neuron ramification and reducti

SUBMITTER: Sant'Anna R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10439599 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature