PRKN

PRKN, also known as parkin, is a protein encoded by the PRKN gene in humans. This gene is located on chromosome 6. Parkin plays a crucial role in cellular processes, particularly in the ubiquitin-proteasome system, which is responsible for degrading damaged or misfolded proteins. It functions as an E3 ubiquitin ligase, a key component that tags proteins for destruction by the proteasome.

Mutations in the PRKN gene are a significant cause of early-onset Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, leading to motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. The impaired protein degradation caused by faulty parkin function is believed to contribute to the accumulation of toxic protein aggregates in neurons, a hallmark of the disease. Research into parkin's function continues to provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying Parkinson's disease and the development of potential therapeutic strategies. Its involvement extends to other cellular functions beyond protein degradation, including mitochondrial quality control and DNA repair.