Scientists map how cell transport proteins fail in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's
Researchers have identified how Miro proteins control the movement of mitochondria through cells—a process that breaks down in neurodegenerative diseases. The findings could point toward new drug targets for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, conditions affecting millions globally and representing a major pharmaceutical development opportunity.
Originaltitel: Miro GTPases at the Crossroads of Cytoskeletal Dynamics and Mitochondrial Trafficking
<p>Miro GTPases are key components in the machinery responsible for transporting mitochondria and peroxisomes along microtubules, and also play important roles in regulating calcium homeostasis and organizing contact sites between mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum. Moreover, Miro GTPases have been shown to interact with proteins that actively regulate cytoskeletal organization and dynamics, suggesting that these GTPases participate in organizing cytoskeletal functions and organelle transport. Derailed mitochondrial transport is associated with neuropathological conditions such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. This review explores our recent understanding of the diverse roles of Miro GTPases under cytoskeletal control, both under normal conditions and during the course of human diseases such as neuropathological disorders.</p>