Ataxin-1's cytoplasmic and mitochondrial interactions may contribute to Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1)
My lab's manuscript "Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) Cell Models Display Widespread Mitochondrial and Extra-Nuclear Alterations" was just published in the Journal of Molecular Neuroscience.
Our study provides experimental evidence that extra-nuclear (cytoplasmic, including mitochondrial) interactions of the ataxin-1 protein may contribute to the pathogenesis of the neurodegenerative disease Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1). When we began this research study some 10 years ago (!), published literature on the role of ataxin-1 in SCA1 focused only on its well-known nuclear interactions. But our experimental data has consistently shown the significance of mitochondrial and other cytoplasmic alterations in the early pathogenesis of the disease. Importantly, the results of our study provide a therapeutic target with the potential to slow the disease process using inexpensive, less invasive and more accessible drugs. I am very proud of all of the undergraduate researchers who contributed to this study and their persistence and motivation over the years!
https://rdcu.be/eI8iE