Thiol redox homeostasis in neurodegenerative disease

●An overview of the biochemistry of thiol redox couples.●The significance of thiol redox homoeostasis in neurodegenerative disease.●The association between the xc− cystine–glutamate exchanger and glutamate-mediated toxicity.●The role of thiol disulphide oxidoreductases in neuroprotection.

This review provides an overview of the biochemistry of thiol redox couples and the significance of thiol redox homeostasis in neurodegenerative disease. The discussion is centred on cysteine/cystine redox balance, the significance of the xc− cystine–glutamate exchanger and the association between protein thiol redox balance and neurodegeneration, with particular reference to Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and glaucoma. The role of thiol disulphide oxidoreductases in providing neuroprotection is also discussed.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide