Association of Parkinson disease pathogenesis with autophagy

Abstract

Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and the accumulation of abnormal protein aggregates called Lewy bodies, which consist primarily of α–synuclein (aSyn). In recent years, abnormalities in the intracellular degradation system known as macroautophagy, which is responsible for degrading organelles and intracellular proteins, have been found to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of PD. As a result, novel therapeutic strategies targeting autophagy regulation have garnered increasing attention. In particular, clinical research is advancing on therapies targeting specific molecules such as LRRK2 (Leucine–Rich Repeat Kinase 2), GBA (Glucocerebrosidase), and mTOR (mammalian Target of Rapamycin).