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High-throughput Screening for Protein-based Inheritance in S. cerevisiae
Published on: August 8, 2017
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Functions of the Prion Protein
Théo Z Hirsch1, Séverine Martin-Lannerée1, Sophie Mouillet-Richard1
1INSERM UMR 1124, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, UMR 1124, Paris, France.
Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science
|August 26, 2017
Summary
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is vital for numerous biological processes, including neuronal homeostasis and cell signaling. Understanding its diverse functions is key to addressing prion and Alzheimer's diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The cellular prion protein (PrPC) was initially overlooked in favor of prion pathogenesis.
- Interest in PrPC functions surged due to its relevance in prion and Alzheimer's diseases.
- PrPC is now recognized for its involvement in diverse biological processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of current knowledge on PrPC functions.
- To explore PrPC roles from the animal to the molecular scale.
- To identify knowledge gaps for future research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on PrPC functions.
- Analysis of PrPC involvement in various biological processes.
- Investigation of PrPC's role in cell signaling pathways.
Main Results:
- PrPC is implicated in neuronal homeostasis, stem cell fate, stress protection, and cell adhesion.
- These diverse functions are mediated through PrPC's involvement in cell signaling.
- PrPC's roles span multiple biological scales, from organismal to molecular.
Conclusions:
- The cellular prion protein (PrPC) plays a critical and multifaceted role in cellular biology.
- Understanding PrPC's signaling functions is crucial for comprehending its involvement in diseases.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the scope and mechanisms of PrPC functions.
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