AD/PD 2022 | Impact of α-synuclein on synaptic function

How α-synuclein (α-Syn) interferes with synaptic function is not fully understood, but is an important area for understanding synucleinopathies. Tiago Outeiro, PhD, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany, describes how α-Syn spreads between neurons, implying its release by neurons and uptake by neurons, astrocytes, and microglia. The transfer of α-Syn between cells likely affects synaptic function, interfering with membrane receptors in the synaptic compartment and changing signaling cascades. This interview took place at the AD/PD™ 2022 Conference in Barcelona, Spain.