Biomedical
Retromer in Synaptic Function and Pathology
Peer Reviewed
Abstract
The retromer complex mediates export of select transmembrane proteins from endosomestothetrans-Golgi network (TGN) or to the plasma membrane. Dysfunction of retromer has been linked with slowly progressing neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease (AD and PD). As these disorders affect synapses it is of key importance to clarify the function of retromer-dependent protein trafficking pathways in pre- and postsynaptic compartments. Here we discuss recent insights into the roles of retromer in the trafficking of synaptic vesicle proteins, neurotransmitter receptors and other synaptic proteins. We also consider evidence that implies synapses as sites of early pathology in neurodegenerative disorders, pointing to a possible role of synaptic retromer dysfunction in the initiation of disease.
Key Questions and Answers
What is the retromer complex, and what is its primary function?
The retromer complex is a protein assembly that mediates the export of select transmembrane proteins from endosomes to the trans-Golgi network (TGN) or to the plasma membrane.
How does retromer dysfunction contribute to neurodegenerative diseases?
Dysfunction of the retromer complex has been linked to slowly progressing neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
What is the significance of retromer-dependent protein trafficking in synaptic compartments?
As Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases affect synapses, it is crucial to clarify the function of retromer-dependent protein trafficking pathways in pre- and postsynaptic compartments to understand the underlying mechanisms of these diseases.
