Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in brain science, revealing a previously unknown function of the 19S proteasome particle. Traditionally associated with protein degradation, this particle has been found to operate independently within synapses, where it plays a crucial role in regulating key synaptic proteins. This newfound understanding not only expands our knowledge of the 19S particle but also opens up new avenues for comprehending and potentially treating neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and dementia. The use of DNA PAINT, a super-resolution imaging technique, facilitated this remarkable revelation.
While Charles Darwin’s evolutionary theory has emphasized the importance of adaptation and diversity in the natural world, it now appears that proteins within biological cells can also exhibit versatility by adapting to novel roles in different contexts. This adaptability has been observed in the central protein-decomposition apparatus of the brain, where the 19S proteasome particle reveals a previously unseen mechanism for synaptic adaptation.
Traditionally, the regulatory (19S) proteasome particle has been exclusively associated with its role in the proteasome complex, collaborating with the catalytic (20S) particle to identify and eliminate unwanted or damaged proteins—an essential process for normal brain development and function.
Using the advanced imaging technique called DNA PAINT, the research team made an intriguing observation: an abundance of free 19S particles within synapses, unaccompanied by their 20S partners. This led to a profound realization that the 19S particle functions independently, serving as a regulatory entity for numerous critical synaptic proteins. This revelation has expanded our understanding of protein function at synapses, offering a completely new dimension.
The researchers discovered that these surplus 19S particles interact with several synaptic proteins involved in neurotransmitter release and detection, thereby regulating the transfer and storage of information within synapses.
Chao Sun, Associate Professor and lead author of the study, explains, “What we realized was that 19S is not only a partner of 20S; it also functions alone as an independent regulator for many key synaptic proteins. This has unveiled a whole new dimension of protein function at synapses.”
Typically, when a cell produces an excess of a particular protein component, it must eliminate the surplus copies. Cells tend to avoid having extra proteins without partners to facilitate their function, often referred to as “orphan proteins.” However, in this case, it appears that synapses are utilizing these free 19S particles and adapting them to fulfill alternative functions within the synapses themselves.
This groundbreaking discovery provides scientists with a new target for understanding and treating neurological disorders characterized by dysfunctional synapses, including Parkinson’s disease and dementia.
Reference: “An abundance of free regulatory (19S) proteasome particles regulates neuronal synapses” by Chao Sun, Kristina Desch, Belquis Nassim-Assir, Stefano L. Giandomenico, Paulina Nemcova, Julian D. Langer, and Erin M. Schuman, Science, 26 May 2023.
DOI: 10.1126/science.adf2018
Chao Sun, currently a Group Leader at DANDRITE, conducted this research while collaborating with Brain Prize winner Erin Schuman at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about proteasome particle in synapses
What is the role of the 19S proteasome particle in synapses?
The 19S proteasome particle, traditionally associated with protein degradation, has been discovered to function independently in synapses. It plays a crucial role in regulating key synaptic proteins, allowing synapses to adapt to different circumstances.
How was this discovery made?
The discovery of the 19S proteasome particle’s role in synapses was aided by the super-resolution imaging technique DNA PAINT. This advanced imaging method allowed researchers to observe an abundance of free 19S particles within synapses, revealing their independent function.
What are the implications of this discovery?
The newfound understanding of the 19S proteasome particle’s role in synapses opens up new possibilities for understanding and potentially treating neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Targeting this particle could offer novel approaches to address dysfunctional synapses and their impact on brain function.
How do the free 19S particles interact with synaptic proteins?
The research found that the free 19S particles interact with various synaptic proteins involved in neurotransmitter release and detection. By regulating these proteins, the 19S particles contribute to information transfer and storage at synapses.
Who conducted this research?
The research was conducted by a team led by Chao Sun, an Associate Professor who worked with Brain Prize winner Erin Schuman at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research. Chao Sun is currently a Group Leader at DANDRITE.
More about proteasome particle in synapses
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“An abundance of free regulatory (19S) proteasome particles regulates neuronal synapses” (Science)
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DNA PAINT technique
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Max Planck Institute for Brain Research
- Link: https://brain.mpg.de/
