Nanotubes: Reshaping Connectivity and Role in the Spreading of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Venue: Amphitheatre, Level 2, Duke-NUS
Audience: Community Partners;Healthcare Professionals
Cost:

You are invited to the upcoming talk on Nanotubes: Reshaping connectivity and role in the spreading of neurodegenerative diseases.

Date: 27 September 2023, Wednesday
Time: 3-4pm
Venue: Amphitheatre, Level 2, Duke-NUS

Presenter:

Professor Chiara Zurzolo

Head, Membrane Trafficking and Pathogenesis Unit

Co-director, Brain Connectivity & Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Program

Institut Pasteur (Paris)

Abstract:

Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are actin-based cellular connections that allow the transport of different cellular components between cells. The structure and function of TNTs have been characterized in

several cell types, including neurons and astrocytes. Under homeostatic conditions, TNTs transport different vesicular cargoes and entire organelles like mitochondria and lysosomes. However, they can

be hijacked by different pathogens and amyloid proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson´s (PD) Alzheimer’s (AD). We have previously demonstrated that both alpha-synuclein

and Tau aggregates, respectively the hallmark of PD and AD, can be spread - via TNTs. In my talk I will address the similarities and differences between TNT-mediated diffusion of these two types of

aggregates, in order to identify common pathways leading to neurodegeneration. I will also assess the likelihood of TNT in vivo. Our most recent data indicate that TNT-like connections are present in

the developing brain. Our hypothesis is that TNTs precede synaptic connections for the establishment of mature neuronal networks while in the adult tissue they are induced by stressful and inflammatory

stimuli.