Loss of α-Synuclein Does Not Affect Mitochondrial Bioenergetics in Rodent Neurons.

ABSTRACT: Increased α-synuclein (αsyn) and mitochondrial dysfunction play central roles in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD), and lowering αsyn is under intensive investigation as a therapeutic strategy for PD. Increased αsyn levels disrupt mitochondria and impair respiration, while reduced αsyn protects against mitochondrial toxins, suggesting that interactions between αsyn and mitochondria influences the pathologic and physiologic functions of αsyn. However, we do not know if αsyn affects normal mitochondrial function or if lowering αsyn levels impacts bioenergetic function, especially at the nerve terminal where αsyn is enriched. To determine if αsyn is required for normal mitochondrial function in neurons, we comprehensively evaluated how lowering αsyn affects mitochondrial function.

SUBMITTER: Pathak D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5409983 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Mar-Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature