Gosset Molecular Classification
Intrinsically disordered protein
Other Names
SNCA
Disease Roles
Alpha-synuclein Overview
Alpha-synuclein is a small, highly abundant neuronal protein encoded by the SNCA gene. It plays a key role in synaptic vesicle trafficking and neurotransmitter release at presynaptic terminals. In Parkinson’s disease and related disorders, alpha-synuclein misfolds into insoluble aggregates that accumulate as Lewy bodies. Targeting pathological alpha-synuclein accumulation is an active area of therapeutic research.
Mechanism of Action
Targeting pathological alpha-synuclein accumulation
Biological Functions
Synaptic vesicle trafficking
Neurotransmitter release
Molecular chaperone activity
Maintenance of synaptic vesicle pools
Regulation of microtubule dynamics
Disease Associations
Parkinson's disease
Dementia with Lewy bodies
Multiple System Atrophy
Synucleinopathies
Neurodegenerative disease
Safety Considerations
- Targeting the correct form of alpha-synuclein (e.g., misfolded aggregates)
- Ensuring therapeutic interventions do not disrupt normal alpha-synuclein function
Associated Biomarkers
| Biomarker |
|---|
| Changes in alpha-synuclein levels in cerebrospinal fluid |
| Changes in alpha-synuclein levels in plasma |