Shared Protein Link Found Between Parkinson’s and Cancer
Source: NeuroScience News, April 2025
Summary: A new study reveals that the protein alpha-synuclein, known for its role in Parkinson’s disease, also contributes to the development of melanoma by promoting excessive DNA repair and cell proliferation. While in neurons, excess alpha-synuclein leads to cell death, in melanoma cells it enables uncontrolled growth by recruiting repair proteins to DNA breaks.
This dual role highlights the complex nature of alpha-synuclein and suggests new therapeutic targets for both diseases. Researchers now aim to modulate this protein’s function to either curb cancer growth or restore protective DNA repair in neurons.
Key Facts:
- Dual Role of Alpha-Synuclein: In Parkinson’s, it exits the nucleus and forms harmful clumps; in melanoma, it remains in the nucleus and over-repairs DNA.
- Cancer Mechanism: In melanoma cells, alpha-synuclein boosts the recruitment of repair protein 53BP1, promoting cell survival and proliferation.
- Therapeutic Potential: Drugs that adjust alpha-synuclein function could offer new treatments for both Parkinson’s disease and melanoma.