Protein/lipid coaggregates are formed during α-synuclein-induced disruption of lipid bilayers

Andreas van Maarschalkerweerd, Valeria Vetri, Annette Eva Langkilde, Vito Foderà, Bente Vestergaard

    33 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Amyloid formation is associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD). Significant α-synuclein (αSN) deposition in lipid-rich Lewy bodies is a hallmark of PD. Nonetheless, an unraveling of the connection between neurodegeneration and amyloid fibrils, including the molecular mechanisms behind potential amyloid-mediated toxic effects, is still missing. Interaction between amyloid aggregates and the lipid cell membrane is expected to play a key role in the disease progress. Here, we present experimental data based on hybrid analysis of two-photon-microscopy, solution small-angle X-ray scattering and circular dichroism data. Data show in real time changes in liposome morphology and stability upon protein addition and reveal that membrane disruption mediated by amyloidogenic αSN is associated with dehydration of anionic lipid membranes and stimulation of protein secondary structure. As a result of membrane fragmentation, soluble αSN:-lipid coaggregates are formed, hence, suggesting a novel molecular mechanism behind PD amyloid cytotoxicity.

    Original languageEnglish
    JournalBiomacromolecules
    Volume15
    Issue number10
    Pages (from-to)3643-54
    Number of pages12
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 13 Oct 2014

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Protein/lipid coaggregates are formed during α-synuclein-induced disruption of lipid bilayers'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this