α-Synuclein is a protein that is abundant in the brain and is found mainly at the tips of neurons (presynaptic terminals). Within these structures it interacts with phospholipids and proteins. The presynaptic terminals release neurotransmitters which relay signals between neurons and is critical for normal brain function. α-Synuclein is a major component of Lewy bodies in the affected neurons in Parkinson’s disease and it is also involved in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease. Finding interaction partners of e.g. α-synuclein is an important step in trying to find specific biological markers of disease status or disease progression.

protein – protein interaction | alpha-synuclein | neurodegenerative diseases | MO-P-075