Microtubule acetylation: A reading key to neural physiology and degeneration

Neurons are the perfect example of cells where microtubules are essential to achieve an extraordinary degree of morphological and functional complexity. Different tubulin isoforms and associated post-translational modifications are the basis to establish the diversity in biochemical and biophysical properties of microtubules including their stability and the control of intracellular transport. Acetylation is one of the key tubulin modifications and it can influence important structural, mechanical and biological traits of the microtubule network. Here, we present the emerging evidence for the essential role of microtubule acetylation in the control of neuronal and glial function in healthy and degenerative conditions. In particular, we discuss the pathogenic role of tubulin acetylation in neurodegenerative disorders and focus on Parkinson's disease. We also provide a critical analysis about the possibility to target tubulin acetylation as a novel therapeutic intervention for neuroprotective strategies.