Alpha-Synuclein Assemblies and Metal-Mediated Redox Mechanisms

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PROJECT SUMMARY Elucidation of the etiopathology of protein-metal interactions has been in the spotlight of neurodegenerative disease research for many years. The hallmark protein α-synuclein (αS), which is associated with the most prevalent movement disorder - Parkinson’s disease (PD), remains unclear in regards to both function and conformation. Similarly, questions pertaining to the role of transition biometals, namely copper and iron, are still a mystery. This research aims to elucidate the effect of these biometals on different conformational states of αS, contributing clarity to current controversies surrounding the native structure. In recent years, equally convincing biochemical studies on erythrocyte- and brain-derived αS protein have been reported that argue in support of two different native conformations for αS. The conventional conformation of αS has been described as an intrinsically disordered monomer that can self-associate to form toxic oligomers as well as disease-relevant insoluble aggregates termed Lewy bodies. Recent findings have supported a native tetrameric α-helical αS conformation that is stabilized by hydrophobic interactions and that is resistant to aggregation, yet systematic studies are sparse. Comprehensive studies on the role of copper and iron in these native conformations in regards to structural influences, membrane affinity, protein-protein interactions, and/or ability to produce functional/dysfunctional post-translational modifications have yet to be reported. The cross-disciplinary approach described through this research strategy will aid in closing this gap within the biomedical community. Likewise, an advancement in the understanding of tau/αS interactions as well as oxidative and/or nitrosative molecular mechanisms will contribute to the elucidation of pathologically relevant disease pathways associated with PD and may inspire new targets for drug development and/or clinical biomarkers.