Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
1921728 | Parkinsonism & Related Disorders | 2008 | 5 Pages |
Abstract
The major component of Lewy bodies in Parkinson's disease (PD) is α-synuclein, which is considered as a substrate of the ubiquitin–proteasome (UP) system, although autophagy seems to be equally involved. Here we discuss the co-existence of α-synuclein and proteins belonging to the UP system within autophagic granules, further developing as neuronal inclusions. We hypothesize that, following slight insults, both UP and autophagy are induced; if toxic stimuli are prolonged, these pathways are overwhelmed and cell death occurs. We then indicate a protective role of autophagy in PD and suggest it as a therapeutic target to slow down the progression of the disease.
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Authors
Michela Ferrucci, Livia Pasquali, Stefano Ruggieri, Antonio Paparelli, Francesco Fornai,