Figure 4.

Neuronal processes modulated by plasma membrane GM1. GM1 is a component of the outer layer of the plasma membrane and when available in physiological amounts it interacts with the NGF receptor TrkA. This interaction is necessary for TrkA dimerization and activation when NGF is released by the cell. From here, the process activates the down-streaming pathway, finally leading to the differentiation, protection, and survival of neurons. Gangliosides around the calcium channel concentrate calcium ions to realize a strong gradient and accelerate calcium’s entrance into the cell. The GM1 associated with the synapsis stabilizes the α-synuclein, avoiding its aggregation, and allowing it to transfer to the post-synapsis as an unfolded protein.