Expression pattern and localization of alpha-synuclein in the human enteric nervous system.
Neurobiol Dis
; 48(3): 474-80, 2012 Dec.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-22850485
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Alpha-synuclein (α-syn) is abundantly expressed in the central nervous system and involved in the regulation of neurotransmission. Insoluble fibrils of phosphorylated α-synuclein (p-α-syn) have been implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease). The aim of the study was to determine the gene expression pattern and localization of α-syn/p-α-syn in the human enteric nervous system (ENS).METHODS:
Human colonic specimens (n=13, 15-83 years) were processed for α-syn and p-α-syn immunohistochemistry. Colocalization of α-syn was assessed by dual-labeling with pan-neuronal markers (PGP 9.5, HuC/D). For qPCR studies, tissue was obtained from full-thickness sections, tunica muscularis, submucosa, mucosa, and laser-microdissected (LMD) enteric ganglia.RESULTS:
Highest α-syn levels were detectable within the tunica muscularis and submucosa. Ganglia isolated by LMD showed high expression of α-syn mRNA. All myenteric and submucosal ganglia and nerve fibers were immunoreactive for α-syn. Dual-labeling revealed colocalization of α-syn with both pan-neuronal markers. p-α-syn immunoreactivity was consistently observed in specimens from adults with increasing age.CONCLUSIONS:
α-syn is abundantly expressed in all nerve plexus of the human ENS including both neuronal somata and processes. The presence of p-α-syn within the ENS is a regular finding in adults with increasing age and may not be regarded as pathological correlate. The data provide a basis to unravel the functions of α-syn and to evaluate altered α-syn in enteric neuropathies and α-synucleinopathies of the CNS with gastrointestinal manifestations.
Texto completo:
1
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Sistema Nervoso Entérico
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Alfa-Sinucleína
Limite:
Adolescent
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Adult
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Aged
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Aged80
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Female
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Humans
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Male
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Middle aged
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2012
Tipo de documento:
Article