A team of researchers from Rutgers University has made a groundbreaking discovery in understanding the behavior of biomolecular condensates, which are linked to Parkinson’s disease. The study, published in Science Advances, reveals how protein clusters transform from liquid-like blobs to solid-like structures.
In human cells, these mysterious droplets contain high levels of the protein alpha-synuclein, which is commonly found in brain cells of people with Parkinson’s disease. By studying these condensates, researchers aim to better understand how diseases like Parkinson’s develop and progress.
The team developed a novel technique to measure the mechanical properties of biomolecular condensates in live cells. They used microscopic pipettes called micropipettes to probe the droplets without destroying the surrounding cells. This allowed them to quantify the dynamics of condensate formation and solidification.
According to Zheng Shi, assistant professor at Rutgers University, “By measuring how these condensates change from liquid to solid in living systems, we can better understand how diseases like Parkinson’s develop and progress.” The researchers believe that their findings will open new avenues for research into the early stages of neurodegenerative diseases and their treatment.
The study’s results have significant implications for the understanding of cell biology and disease origins. The discovery highlights the importance of studying biomolecular condensates, which play a critical role in various biological functions and diseases.
This breakthrough research is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovative techniques in scientific inquiry.
Source: https://phys.org/news/2025-04-scientists-reveal-protein-linked-parkinson.html