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Further observations on MxA-positive Lewy bodies in Parkinson's disease brain tissues
1Department of Neurology, Chiba University, Japan.
Abstract:
MxA protein, one of the GTPases, is induced in the cytoplasm by interferons and confers a high degree of resistance to some viruses. We recently reported that in cases of Parkinson's disease (PD), Lewy bodies (LBs) in the substantia nigra (SN) were positive for MxA. This study aimed to provide more detailed data on MxA-positive structures in the SN in PD brain tissues. Swellings of neuronal processes, as well as LBs, were positive for MxA. Immuno-electron microscopy revealed that reaction products corresponding to MxA proteins localized in self-aggregations similar to those reported for Mx1 protein in mouse tissues. These results show that MxA may play a role in the formation of LBs and swellings of neuronal processes.
Insights
MxA protein is found in Parkinson
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- MxA protein, an interferon-induced GTPase, confers antiviral resistance.
- Previous findings indicated MxA protein presence in Parkinson's disease Lewy bodies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate MxA protein localization in Parkinson's disease substantia nigra.
- To detail MxA-positive structures within Parkinson's disease brain tissues.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry on Parkinson's disease substantia nigra tissues.
- Immuno-electron microscopy to analyze MxA protein localization.
Main Results:
- MxA protein was detected in both Lewy bodies and neuronal process swellings in the substantia nigra.
- Immuno-electron microscopy revealed MxA protein self-aggregation within these structures.
- These aggregates resemble those observed for Mx1 protein in mouse models.
Conclusions:
- MxA protein is implicated in the formation of Lewy bodies and neuronal swellings in Parkinson's disease.
- The self-aggregation of MxA protein may be a key factor in Parkinson's pathology.