Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 1, 2026

Technique for Intranasal Administration of α-Synuclein Aggregates
Published on: November 8, 2024
The Cellular Environment Affects Monomeric α-Synuclein Structure
Amberley D Stephens1, Maria Zacharopoulou1, Gabriele S Kaminski Schierle1
1Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0AS, UK.
Abstract:
The presynaptic protein α-synuclein (aSyn) is an 'intrinsically disordered protein' that is highly dynamic in conformation. Transient intramolecular interactions between its charged N and C termini, and between its hydrophobic region and the C terminus, prevent self-association. These interactions inhibit the formation of insoluble inclusions, which are the pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease and many other synucleinopathies. This review discusses how these intramolecular interactions are influenced by the specific environment aSyn is in. We discuss how charge, pH, calcium, and salt affect the physiological structure of monomeric aSyn, and how they may favour the formation of toxic structures. The more we understand the dynamic conformations of aSyn, the better we can design desperately needed therapeutics to prevent disease progression.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Protein and Protein Structure
A protein's shape is critical to its function. For example, an enzyme...
Additional Subnuclear Structures
The nucleus contains many membrane-less subnuclear organelles or nuclear bodies, such as nucleoli, Cajal bodies, speckles,...
Gene-Environment Interactions
α-Alkylation of Ketones via Enolate Ions
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
Cellular Differentiation
A zygote is a...

