The pathological role of alpha synuclein is most prominently associated with its aggregation into Lewy bodies, which are characteristic of Parkinsonâs disease and other related disorders. Misfolded alpha synuclein aggregates disrupt normal cellular functions, leading to neuronal death. The mechanisms by which these aggregates cause toxicity include impairment of autophagy and proteasomal degradation pathways, disruption of calcium homeostasis, and the generation of reactive oxygen species.
