Targeting ?-synuclein for treatment of Parkinson's disease: mechanistic and therapeutic considerations.

ABSTRACT: Progressive neuronal cell loss in a small subset of brainstem and mesencephalic nuclei and widespread aggregation of the ?-synuclein protein in the form of Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites are neuropathological hallmarks of Parkinson's disease. Most cases occur sporadically, but mutations in several genes, including SNCA, which encodes ?-synuclein, are associated with disease development. The discovery and development of therapeutic strategies to block cell death in Parkinson's disease has been limited by a lack of understanding of the mechanisms driving neurodegeneration. However, increasing evidence of multiple pivotal roles of ?-synuclein in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease has led researchers to consider the therapeutic potential of several strategies aimed at reduction of ?-synuclein toxicity. We critically assess the potential of experimental therapies targeting ?-synuclein, and discuss steps that need to be taken for target validation and drug development.

SUBMITTER: Dehay B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5217462 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature