Yeast Cells Provide Insight into Alpha-Synuclein Biology and Pathobiology
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.
- Publication:
-
Science
- Pub Date:
- December 2003
- DOI:
- 10.1126/science.1090439
- Bibcode:
- 2003Sci...302.1772O
- Keywords:
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- CELL BIOL