Calcium homeostasis, selective vulnerability and Parkinson's disease

Trends Neurosci. 2009 May;32(5):249-56. doi: 10.1016/j.tins.2009.01.006. Epub 2009 Mar 21.

Abstract

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder of which the core motor symptoms are attributable to the degeneration of dopamine (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). Recent work has revealed that the engagement of L-type Ca(2+) channels during autonomous pacemaking renders SNc DA neurons susceptible to mitochondrial toxins used to create animal models of PD, indicating that homeostatic Ca(2+) stress could be a determinant of their selective vulnerability. This view is buttressed by the central role of mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum (linchpins of current theories about the origins of PD) in Ca(2+) homeostasis. Here, we summarize this evidence and suggest the dual roles had by these organelles could compromise their function, leading to accelerated aging of SNc DA neurons, particularly in the face of genetic or environmental stress. We conclude with a discussion of potential therapeutic strategies for slowing the progression of PD.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium / metabolism*
  • Calcium Channels / physiology
  • Dopamine / metabolism
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum / metabolism
  • Homeostasis / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Mitochondria / metabolism
  • Neurons / ultrastructure
  • Parkinson Disease / metabolism*
  • Parkinson Disease / pathology
  • Parkinson Disease / physiopathology*
  • Substantia Nigra / pathology

Substances

  • Calcium Channels
  • Calcium
  • Dopamine