Microglial inhibition alleviates alpha-synuclein propagation and neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease mouse model
Publication date: 02/02/2024
Authors: Thi Lai, T., Kim, Y.E., Nguyen, L.T.N. et al.
Journal: npj Parkinsons Dis. 10, 32
Commentary: The study by Thi Lai and colleagues reveals the contribution of microglia in αSyn pathology as well as the long-term effect of microglial inhibition in synucleinopathy and neurodegeneration. Employing a Parkinson’s Disease (PD) mouse model by injecting αSyn preformed fibrils (PFF), the authors examine the role of reactive microglia in the propagation of αSyn and neurodegeneration. Their findings exhibits that microglial reactivity accelerates αSyn aggregation and accumulation, resulting in substantial neurodegeneration in the PD mouse model. Furthermore, inhibition of microglial reactivity mitigates these alterations in the PFF-induced PD mouse model. This study uncovers a strong correlation between inflammation and αSyn spread, suggesting that microglial reactivity is not merely a side effect of αSyn injection, but rather a contributing factor in the deterioration of synucleinopathy. Thus, these outcomes propose microglia as a new therapeutic target for treating PD.
Commented by: Federica Campanelli (20/04/2025)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41531-024-00640-2
