Alpha Synuclein: Function

The function of alpha synuclein in healthy individuals is poorly understood, however, it has been proposed to regulate vesicular transport between brain cells¹. Down regulation of alpha synuclein in knockout mice and primary neurons confirmed its regulation of synaptic neurotransmission¹⁶. Alpha synuclein also functions in neurodegeneration; it is the main component of Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites, and has been linked to the destruction of dopamine producing neurons which causes the movement problems associated with Parkinson’s Disease¹.