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Exogenous Administration of Microsomes-associated Alpha-synuclein Aggregates to Primary Neurons As a Powerful Cell Model of Fibrils Formation
Published on: June 26, 2018
Tau-positive glial cytoplasmic granules in multiple system atrophy
Masaya Nagaishi1, Hideaki Yokoo, Yoichi Nakazato
1Department of Human Pathology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan. nagaishinsu@umin.ac.jp
Summary
Multiple system atrophy (MSA), a neurodegenerative disease, commonly shows alpha-synuclein aggregation. This study reveals tau-positive granules in glial cells are also frequent in MSA, suggesting a novel neurodegeneration pathway.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neuropathology
- Neurodegenerative Diseases
Background:
- Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a sporadic neurodegenerative disorder.
- Pathological hallmarks include alpha-synuclein aggregation in glial cells.
Observation:
- A case of MSA presented with parkinsonism and ataxia.
- Neuropathology revealed neuronal loss in olivopontocerebellar and striatonigral regions.
- Widespread glial cytoplasmic inclusions of alpha-synuclein were observed.
Findings:
- Unusual tau-positive granules were detected within glial cytoplasm in neurodegenerative areas.
- Tau accumulation was prominent in the putamen and internal capsule.
- These tau-positive glial granules were present in all reviewed MSA cases and distinct from alpha-synuclein inclusions.
Implications:
- Tau-positive glial granules are a common neuropathological finding in MSA.
- Tau aggregation may represent an alternative pathway contributing to neurodegeneration in MSA.
- Further research into tau's role in MSA pathogenesis is warranted.
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