Linking microtubules to Parkinson's disease : the case of parkin

Microtubules are dynamic polymers consisting of αβ tubulin dimers and playing a plethora of roles in eukaryotic cells. Looking at neurons, they are key determinants of neuronal polarity, axonal transport and synaptic plasticity. The concept that microtubule dysfunction can participate in, and perhaps lead to, Parkinson’s disease progression has been suggested by studies using toxin-based and genetic experimental models of the disease. Here, we first learn lessons from MPTP and rotenone as well as from the Parkinson’s disease related genes, including SNCA and LRRK2, and then look at old and new evidence regarding the interplay between parkin and microtubules. Data from experimental models and human cells point out that parkin regulates microtubule stability and strengthen the link between microtubules and Parkinson’s disease paving the way to a viable strategy for the management of the disease.