Synphilin-1 in Neuroprotection and Metabolic Regulation: Implications in Parkinson Disease and Obesity

Synphilin-1, a cytosolic protein, interacts with a variety of proteins involved in an array of cellular activities. Synphilin-1 links multiple signaling pathways and is implicated in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and obesity-related metabolic disorders, although its normal physiological function is not fully understood. Recent studies suggest that synphilin-1 interacts with various proteins to form an interaction network that regulates various signaling events. Here, we review these findings on synphilin-1 and its protein interaction partners to elucidate its potential role in protein aggregation, neuroprotection, and control of energy balance underlying the pathogenesis of PD and obesity. These insights into synphilin-1 may provide new avenues into the understanding of the pathogenesis of PD and obesity and aid in identifying potential therapeutic targets for intervention.