What's Happening?
A recent study has explored the accumulation of alpha-synuclein (aSyn) aggregates in neurons, revealing that the extent of aggregation varies depending on the type of neurotransmitter released by the neurons. The research involved injecting aSyn preformed
fibrils (PFFs) into the striatum of mice and observing the propagation of aggregates in neuronal cell bodies over time. The study found that aSyn aggregates were more frequently observed in the neocortex and substantia nigra compared to the striatum. This suggests that neurons in the striatum exhibit a relative resilience to aSyn aggregation. The study also highlighted the role of microglia and astrocytes in the clearance of aSyn aggregates, rather than their propagation.
Why It's Important?
The findings of this study are significant as they provide insights into the mechanisms of aSyn aggregation, which is a hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. Understanding the differential accumulation of aSyn aggregates in various brain regions and cell types can help in developing targeted therapies for these conditions. The study suggests that targeting intrinsic cellular properties may offer novel therapeutic avenues for treating synucleinopathies. This research could lead to better strategies for early intervention and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.
