Contributions
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Accolades
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Genome-wide association studies have identified 134 different loci as risk factors for Parkinson’s disease (PD), including multiple genes encoding for lysosomal proteins. However, the mechanisms by which lysosomal dysfunction contributes to PD pathogenesis remain unclear. Focusing on a targeted set of lysosomal PD risk factors (TMEM175, GBA1, GPNMB, LRRK2 and SNCA), we will determine how these variants affect lysosomal health and alpha-synuclein clearance in a cell-autonomous and noncell autonomous fashion using iPSC-derived neurons and microglia and immortalized cells lines. We will uncover the mechanistic basis by which these variants influence lysosomal homeostasis and contribute to alpha-synuclein accumulation or spreading.
Members of the CRN work diligently to advance our understanding of Parkinson’s disease. Learn more about recent CRN discoveries and achievements.