Figure 2.

Interactions in a PD neuron between mitochondria, lysosomes, iron, and α-Syn production and ultimately proteasomal dysfunction, oxidative stress and apoptosis (adapted from [20]). The figure illustrates the interplay between mitochondria and lysosomes during the apoptotic cell death that characterizes the death of neurons in the substantia nigra that is the hallmark of PD. The location of receptors like the TLR and IL-1 receptors and the metal ion transporter 1 are shown. These receptors and transporter are known to bind bacterial inflammagens, IL-1, and Fe²⁺. In PD, there is also a loss of neuromelanin in the substantia nigra, and this could lead to enhanced calcium messaging. These molecules play a fundamental role in the downstream activation of inflammation and oxidative stress, and ultimately play a crucial role in α-Syn and Lewy body formation.