Snaring the function of alpha-synuclein.
editorial · Level V
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Abstract
It is well established that the abundant neuronal protein alpha-synuclein has a causal role in Parkinson's disease, yet the normal functions of this protein remain unclear. In this issue of Cell, Chandra et al. (2005) reveal that alpha-synuclein acts as a molecular chaperone, assisting in the folding and refolding of synaptic proteins called SNAREs. These proteins are crucial for release of neurotransmitters at the neuronal synapse, vesicle recycling, and synaptic integrity.
Medical subject headings
- HSP40 Heat-Shock Proteins
- Molecular Chaperones
- SNARE Proteins
- Synaptic Vesicles
- alpha-Synuclein