A team of Australian scientists from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research has made a groundbreaking discovery about Parkinson’s disease, revealing the structure and function of a key protein linked to the condition. The study, published in Science, uses advanced imaging technology to show how the PINK1 protein interacts with cellular powerhouses called mitochondria.
Researchers have known for over two decades that mutations in the PINK1 gene can trigger early-onset Parkinson’s, but the underlying mechanisms remained unclear. The new study sheds light on this by showing how PINK1 attaches to mitochondria and activates them. In healthy cells, PINK1 passes through the outer and inner membranes without issue, but in damaged mitochondria, it becomes stuck halfway through and triggers a process to delete the dysfunctional power unit.
The team used techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy and mass spectrometry to study PINK1 and mitochondria at a molecular level. Their findings reveal that PINK1’s attachment to mitochondria is based on a specific protein complex called TOM-VDAC. This discovery could lead to new treatments aimed at repairing the functionality of the PINK1 protein, potentially reducing the risk of Parkinson’s or slowing its progression.
The study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms behind proteins like PINK1 and moves researchers closer to understanding the common causes of this complex disease.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/key-parkinsons-protein-structure-and-malfunction-revealed-for-first-time