Alpha-synuclein is composed of 140 amino acids and is known for its conformational flexibility . It plays several crucial roles in synaptic activity, including the regulation of synaptic vesicle trafficking and neurotransmitter release . As a monomer, alpha-synuclein enhances vesicle priming, fusion, and dilation of exocytotic fusion pores by increasing local calcium release from microdomains . Additionally, in its multimeric membrane-bound state, it acts as a molecular chaperone, assisting in the folding of synaptic fusion components known as SNAREs (Soluble NSF Attachment Protein REceptors) at the presynaptic plasma membrane .
Alpha-synuclein is notably involved in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases, collectively known as synucleinopathies. These include Parkinson’s disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and multiple system atrophy (MSA) . The aggregation of alpha-synuclein in the brain is a hallmark of these diseases and is associated with the loss of nigral dopaminergic neurons, leading to motor symptoms characteristic of parkinsonism . However, it is important to note that alpha-synuclein pathology can occur independently of parkinsonism, as it is also observed in asymptomatic senescent brains .
Recombinant alpha-synuclein (mouse) is a full-length protein expressed in Escherichia coli, with a purity greater than 95% . This recombinant protein is biologically active and suitable for various applications, including SDS-PAGE and functional studies . It is used extensively in research to study the role of alpha-synuclein in synaptic activity and its involvement in neurodegenerative diseases.
Given its central role in synucleinopathies, alpha-synuclein is a key target for research aimed at understanding and treating these diseases. Despite its importance, there is currently no consensus on reliable markers for defining toxic pathogenic alpha-synuclein aggregates in postmortem human brain tissue . As such, there is an urgent need to develop a panel of antibodies and animal models for studying synucleinopathies .