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TSPO: An Evolutionarily Conserved Protein with Elusive Functions.
Frederick Bonsack1, Sangeetha Sukumari-Ramesh2
1Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA. fbonsack@augusta.edu.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|June 8, 2018
Summary
The translocator protein (TSPO) is crucial for cellular processes and highly expressed in neuroinflammatory cells. While a potential biomarker and therapeutic target, its exact function in health and disease remains unclear.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The translocator protein (TSPO), formerly the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor, is an evolutionarily conserved protein.
- TSPO is involved in regulating inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial homeostasis.
- It is highly expressed in neuroinflammatory cells like activated microglia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in understanding the multifaceted molecule TSPO.
- To identify knowledge gaps for future functional studies of TSPO.
- To highlight TSPO's role as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in neuropathology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advances in TSPO research.
- Analysis of studies employing TSPO ligands.
- Synthesis of current understanding of TSPO's molecular function.
Main Results:
- TSPO has broad expression in peripheral tissues and is highly expressed in activated microglia.
- Emerging studies suggest TSPO's importance in neuropathological settings.
- The precise molecular function of TSPO in normal physiology and neuropathology is still enigmatic.
Conclusions:
- TSPO is a significant molecule with implications for neuroinflammation and neuropathology.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise molecular functions of TSPO.
- TSPO represents a promising target for future therapeutic strategies and diagnostic biomarkers.
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