MDS 2023 | Key mechanisms in Parkinson’s disease: mitochondrial dysfunction, lipids, & lysosomal dysfunction

Tiago Outeiro, PhD, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany, delves into the potential mechanisms associated with Parkinson’s disease. Starting with a focus on mitochondrial dysfunction, a well-established factor in parkinsonism, Prof. Outeiro highlights the importance of understanding how interference with mitochondrial biology can lead to cell alterations and subsequent cell loss. The emerging concept of alterations in lipid metabolism and their role in Parkinson’s disease, both at the cellular and physiological levels, are also discussed. Additionally, lysosomal dysfunction, the subcellular compartments responsible for degrading aggregated proteins, is discussed as a potential strategy for intervention in clearing protein aggregates from cells. Prof. Outeiro emphasizes the need to consider protein aggregation as a possible cause of loss of protein function and underscores the importance of gaining a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the disease. Doing so can pave the way for more effective therapies in the future. This interview took place at the 2023 International Congress of Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders in Copenhagen, Denmark.

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