The role of mitochondria in Parkinson's disease

Sly Saint · Apr 20, 2023

Medical Research Foundation

What are mitochondria and how is it linked to Parkinson’s?
Mitochondria are like the batteries of our cells. They are small organelles found within our cells that convert the food we eat into a chemical form of energy, called adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This energy allows our cells to function.

If the mitochondria are faulty, the cells will not have enough energy and can become damaged.

There is much research evidence linking mitochondrial dysfunction to the development of Parkinson’s, but more still needs to be understood.

Investigating this link
With a Medical Research Foundation Enhancing Research Award, Dr Michael Devine from The Francis Crick Institute is investigating the distribution and activity of mitochondria in neurons to better understand its role in Parkinson’s.

Dr Michael Devine, The Francis Crick Institute

Using mass spectrometry imaging (a technique that allows for precise measurement of proteins and molecules of the mitochondria), Dr Devine and his team are looking specifically at mitochondrial function at synapses, where nerve cells communicate with each other in the brain.

Studying the mitochondria in this way may help to uncover new insights into the underlying causes of Parkinson's disease, and could potentially lead to new therapies that specifically target these organelles within synapses to slow or stop the progression of the disorder.
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The role of mitochondria in Parkinson's disease

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