Alfasynukleiini

Alfa-synukleiini is a protein that is primarily found in the brain. Its exact function is not fully understood, but it is thought to play a role in synaptic regulation, neurotransmitter release, and neuronal plasticity. Alfa-synukleiini is abundant in presynaptic terminals, where it interacts with synaptic vesicles and plays a role in their trafficking and fusion.

Under certain conditions, alfa-synukleiini can misfold and aggregate. These aggregates, often referred to as Lewy bodies, are a hallmark pathological feature of several neurodegenerative diseases, most notably Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. The accumulation of these protein aggregates is believed to be toxic to neurons, leading to their dysfunction and eventual death.

Research into alfa-synukleiini is a significant area of study in neurodegenerative disease research. Scientists are investigating the mechanisms by which alfa-synukleiini aggregates form, the toxic pathways involved, and potential therapeutic strategies to prevent or clear these aggregates. Understanding the normal function of alfa-synukleiini is also crucial for deciphering its role in disease pathogenesis. Genetic mutations in the alfa-synukleiini gene are directly linked to some forms of familial Parkinson's disease, further highlighting its importance in the disease process.