Molecular Chaperones and Neurodegeneration
We are engaged in a number of initiatives focused on understanding the protective role of molecular chaperones in neurodegeneration. Since chaperones normally prevent the accumulation of misfolded proteins, the appearance of protein aggregates in neurodegenerative disorders (e.g.: prion disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) implies an underlying incapacity in the chaperone machinery. I want to understand how chaperones are involved in normal neural function and what role they play in preventing neurodegenerative disorders.