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Roles of sigma-1 receptors on mitochondrial functions relevant to neurodegenerative diseases

Tzu-Yu Weng1,2, Shang-Yi Anne Tsai1, Tsung-Ping Su3

  • 1Cellular Pathobiology Section, Integrative Neuroscience Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH, DHHS, IRP, NIDA/NIH, Triad Bldg. suite 3512, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.

Journal of Biomedical Science
|September 18, 2017
PubMed

Insights

The sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R) chaperone at the ER-mitochondria interface regulates mitochondrial function. Sig-1R modulation shows promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Area of Science:

  • Cellular Biology
  • Neuroscience
  • Mitochondrial Research

Background:

  • The sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R) is a chaperone protein located at the mitochondrion-associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane (MAM).
  • The MAM is crucial for cellular functions including calcium signaling, energy exchange, and protein folding, and is vital for neuronal homeostasis.
  • Sig-1R's role at the MAM suggests a connection to cellular health and disease.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the role of Sig-1R at the MAM in regulating mitochondrial function.
  • To explore the potential link between Sig-1R and neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, ALS).
  • To discuss the therapeutic potential of Sig-1R ligands in combating neurodegeneration.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on Sig-1R, MAM, and neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Analysis of Sig-1R's known functions at the MAM.
  • Discussion of emerging evidence linking MAM dysfunction to neurodegeneration.

Main Results:

  • Sig-1R modulates Ca2+ signaling and structural integrity at the MAM.
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in various neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Sig-1R's localization and function suggest a key role in neuronal health.

Conclusions:

  • Sig-1R's regulation of mitochondrial function at the MAM is critical for neuronal homeostasis.
  • Dysregulation of Sig-1R may contribute to neurodegenerative conditions.
  • Targeting Sig-1R with ligands offers a promising therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases.
Keywords:
MitochondriaMitochondrion-associated ER membrane (MAM)Neurodegenerative disordersSigma-1 receptor

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