TSPO Finds NOX2 in Microglia for Redox Homeostasis

During the past decade, translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO), previously named peripheral benzodiazepine receptor, has gained a great deal of attention based on its use as a clinical biomarker of neuroinflammation with therapeutic potential. However, there is a paucity of knowledge on the function(s) of TSPO in glial cells. Here, we identify a novel function of TSPO in microglia that is not associated with steroidogenesis. We propose that a TSPO interaction with NADPH oxidase (NOX2) links the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to the induction of an antioxidant response to maintain redox homeostasis. This line of investigation may provide a greater understanding of TSPO glial cell biology, and the knowledge gained may prove beneficial in devising therapeutic strategies.

TrendsThe role of TSPO in steroidogenesis is a hotly debated topic based on recent studies in conditional and global TSPO knockout mice.A novel interaction of TSPO with NOX2 has been identified in microglia.TSPO interacts with gp91phox, the principal NOX2 subunit.The TSPO–NOX2 interaction in microglia is associated with redox homeostasis.