Monthly conference (PhD seminar) – Abid Oueslati

Friday 4 March / 15:00

On zoom

https://u-bordeaux-fr.zoom.us/j/87253703073?pwd=cVN6TXI0NXIwa1JjTFVFR3NNZEp0QT09

ID de réunion : 872 5370 3073
Code secret : 33000

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Title

Unveiling the role of alpha-synuclein clustering and Lewy body formation in Parkinson’s disease pathogenesis

Abstract

Abnormal protein aggregates is a paramount pathological hallmark shared by several, if not all, neurodegenerative diseases. One example is α-synuclein-rich inclusions found in synucleinopathies, which are referred to as Lewy bodies (LB). While their presence is well established, how these aggregates affect neuronal homeostasis remains elusive, in part because we lack the proper tools to undertake such investigations. We have therefore set out to tackle this question by developing a unique approach to fully control α-synuclein aggregation and LB formation in cell culture and within cerebral tissue using light, referred to as Light-inducible protein aggregation (LIPA). In living cells, the LIPA system allows real-time induction of α-synuclein inclusion formation with remarkable spatial and temporal resolution. LIPA-induced aggregates auto-perpetuate for several days after transient induction with light, and faithfully mimic several authentic features of LB. This system constitutes a new and exceptional tool by which to generate, visualize and dissect the role of LB in neurodegeneration and as such, identify new genetic and pharmacological inhibitors of α-synuclein aggregation for the treatment of α-synucleinopathies.

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Hosted by Zoé Grivet (IMN)

Organized by Bordeaux Neurocampus, NBA and Bordeaux Neurocampus Graduate Program