Targeting α-synuclein for treatment of Parkinson's disease: mechanistic and therapeutic considerations.

ABSTRACT: Progressive neuronal cell loss in a small subset of brainstem and mesencephalic nuclei and widespread aggregation of the α-synuclein protein in the form of Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites are neuropathological hallmarks of Parkinson's disease. Most cases occur sporadically, but mutations in several genes, including SNCA, which encodes α-synuclein, are associated with disease development. The discovery and development of therapeutic strategies to block cell death in Parkinson's disease has been limited by a lack of understanding of the mechanisms driving neurodegeneration. However, increasing evidence of multiple pivotal roles of α-synuclein in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease has led researchers to consider the therapeutic potential of several strategies aimed at reduction of α-synucl

SUBMITTER: Dehay B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5217462 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature