According to Shisheva, the ArPIKfyve-Sac3 complex could shift Synphilin-1 distribution from a form of multiple aggregates towards the soluble form. Future attempts to block aggregate formation or to break down formed aggregates of Synphilin-1 and, possibly, of alpha-synuclein, based on the ArPIKfyve-Sac3 complex may prove beneficial as a therapeutic approach in reducing neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease. The current study provides new insights into the neurodegeneration mechanisms and important clues about novel molecular means for reducing cytoplasmic aggregates in Parkinson's disease.

Funding for this research was provided by the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Disease of the National Institutes of Health (R01 DK058058), Wayne State University's Office of the Vice President for Research and School of Medicine, and the American Diabetes Association (7-13-BS-161).