Alpha-synuclein Protein Suitable for In Vitro & In Vivo Experiments

Alpha-synuclein is a key player in complex neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson's disease (PD). The protein has received much attention for its central role in Lewy body formation. As researchers strive to unravel the mysteries of neurodegenerative diseases, alpha-synuclein has emerged as a key entity for in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Creative Biolabs describes the advantages of using alpha-synuclein in research and the various assays designed to reveal its function and dysregulation.

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Structure of Alpha-Synuclein Proteins

Alpha-synuclein is a small, soluble protein that is abundantly expressed in presynaptic nerve terminals, particularly in the brain. Structurally, it is comprised of 140 amino acids and is classified into three distinct regions.

• An amphipathic N-terminal domain: plays a crucial role in membrane interactions.
• A hydrophobic non-amyloid beta component (NAC) region: is responsible for the aggregation of alpha-synuclein into insoluble fibrils, a characteristic feature of PD pathology.
• An acidic C-terminal domain: is implicated in the modulation of alpha-synuclein's aggregation properties.

Antibodies are an important tool in the scientific community's ongoing efforts to obtain more information about the properties of alpha-synuclein protein and to identify diseases such as neurological disorders of the brain. Our neuroscience catalog contains a variety of alpha-synuclein monoclonal antibodies that have been validated by IHC, WB, and ICC-IF, among others.

Advantages of Alpha-Synuclein Proteins in Research

• The formation of Lewy bodies is largely composed of aggregated alpha-synuclein. The relevance of alpha-synuclein to neurodegeneration positions it as a prime target for research.
• Alpha-synuclein is integral to normal synaptic function. It regulates synaptic vesicle trafficking and neurotransmitter release.
• Potential therapeutic target. Investigating the molecular mechanisms governing its aggregation and toxicity provides a foundation for alpha-synuclein targeting therapies aimed at modulating alpha-synuclein levels or preventing its aberrant aggregation.
• Versatility in experimental settings. Alpha-synuclein proteins offer versatility in experimental settings, being amenable to both in vitro and in vivo studies.

Assays for Alpha-Synuclein Proteins

• In Vitro Alpha-Synuclein Aggregation Assays
  Thioflavin T fluorescence assays and sedimentation assays are widely employed to monitor the kinetics of fibril formation. These assays enable researchers to study the impact of various factors, including pH, temperature, and the presence of co-factors, on alpha-synuclein aggregation.
• Cell-Based Models for In Vitro Studies
  Neuroblastoma cell lines or primary neuronal culture models expressing wild-type or mutant alpha-synuclein provide insights into the cellular consequences of alpha-synuclein dysregulation. Techniques like fluorescence microscopy and immunoblotting aid in assessing protein localization, aggregation, and associated cytotoxicity.

• Transgenic Animal Models for In Vivo Studies
  Mouse models expressing human alpha-synuclein variants allow researchers to explore the impact of alpha-synuclein aggregation on behavior, neurodegeneration, and overall disease progression. Behavioral assays, histological analyses, and biochemical assessments in these models contribute to a comprehensive understanding of alpha-synuclein's role in neurodegeneration.
• Alpha-Synuclein Imaging Techniques
  Advancements in imaging technologies have facilitated the visualization of alpha-synuclein in vivo.
• Functional Assays for Synaptic Dysfunction
  Neurological electrophysiology tecchniques, such as patch-clamp recordings, paired-pulse facilitation, and neurotransmitter release assays, provide a direct measure of synaptic activity. These assays complement structural and behavioral assessments, offering a comprehensive view of alpha-synuclein's effects on neuronal communication.

As technology continues to advance, the integration of multiple experimental approaches, from in vitro aggregation assays to in vivo imaging techniques, promises a more nuanced understanding of the impact of α-synuclein on neuronal health. Furthermore, normal α-synuclein plays a crucial role in brain cell communication and is strongly associated with Parkinson's disease. Therefore, the development of customized animal models and suitable methods can help to further understand the mechanism of action (MoA) of α-syn in Parkinson's disease.

Creative Biolabs remains at the forefront of these efforts, providing innovative solutions and expertise to researchers working to decipher the complex biology of α-synuclein and its impact on human health. If you have any difficulties in the project of α-synuclein study, please contact us in time for reasonable advice and professional assistance.

Related Scientific Resources

Parkinson's Disease (PD) Drug Discovery Service

Alpha-synuclein Targeting Therapies Study

Neurological Imaging