The G2019S variant of leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) alters endolysosomal trafficking by impairing the function of the GTPase RAB8A

Impaired SHH responsiveness of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived floor plate cells carrying the LRRK2 I1371V mutation contributes to the ontogenic origin of lower dopaminergic-neuron yield

Lower population of dopaminergic (DA)-neurons is known to increase susceptibility to PD, and our earlier study showed a lower yield of DA-neurons in LRRK2-I1371V mutation-carrying PD patient-iPSCs. While the role of SHH in DA-neurogenesis of Floor-Plate Cells (FPCs) is known, effect of LRRK2 mutations on SHH-responsiveness of FPCs impacting DA-neuronal yield has not been studied. We investigated SHH-responsiveness of FPCs derived from LRRK2-I1371V PD patient-derived iPSCs with regard to the expression of SHH receptors Patched1 (Ptch1) and Smoothened (Smo), in conjunction with nuclear Gli1 expression, intracellular Ca2+ rise, and cytosolic cAMP levels upon SHH induction. Additionally, we examined the mechanistic link with LRRK2-I1371V gain-of-function by assessing membrane-fluidity and Rab8A & Rab10 phosphorylation in SH-SY5Y cells and healthy control (HC)-FPCs overexpressing LRRK2-I1371V as well as FPCs. While total expression of Ptch1 and Smo was comparable, receptor expression on cell-surface was significantly lower in LRRK2-I1371V FPCs than in HC, with distinctly lower nuclear-expression of the downstream transcription factor Gli1. HC-FPCs transfected with LRRK2 I1371V exhibited a similarly reduced cell-surface expression of Ptch1 and Smo. Intracellular Ca2+ response was significantly lower with corresponding elevated cAMP levels in LRRK2-I1371V FPCs compared to HC upon SHH-stimulation. Both LRRK2-I1371V mutant FPCs and LRRK2-I1371V transfected SH-SY5Y and HC-FPCs further exhibited higher autophosphorylation of phospho LRRK2 (pLRRK2) serine1292 and serine935, as well as substrate phosphorylation of Rab8A & Rab10. Concurrent increase in membrane fluidity, accompanied by a decrease in membrane cholesterol, and lower expression of lipid raft marker Caveolin1 were also observed in them. These findings suggest that impaired SHH-responsiveness of LRRK2-I1371V PD FPCs indeed leads to lower yield of DA-neurons during ontogeny. Reduced cell-surface expression of SHH receptors is influenced by alteration in membrane fluidity owing to the increased substrate phosphorylation of Rab8A and reduced membrane protein trafficking due to pRab10, both results of the LRRK2-I1371V mutation.

PRKAA2, MTOR, and TFEB in the regulation of lysosomal damage response and autophagy

Lysosomes function as critical signaling hubs that govern essential enzyme complexes. LGALS proteins (LGALS3, LGALS8, and LGALS9) are integral to the endomembrane damage response. If ESCRT fails to rectify damage, LGALS-mediated ubiquitination occurs, recruiting autophagy receptors (CALCOCO2, TRIM16, and SQSTM1) and VCP/p97 complex containing UBXN6, PLAA, and YOD1, initiating selective autophagy. Lysosome replenishment through biogenesis is regulated by TFEB. LGALS3 interacts with TFRC and TRIM16, aiding ESCRT-mediated repair and autophagy-mediated removal of damaged lysosomes. LGALS8 inhibits MTOR and activates TFEB for ATG and lysosomal gene transcription. LGALS9 inhibits USP9X, activates PRKAA2, MAP3K7, ubiquitination, and autophagy. Conjugation of ATG8 to single membranes (CASM) initiates damage repair mediated by ATP6V1A, ATG16L1, ATG12, ATG5, ATG3, and TECPR1. ATG8ylation or CASM activates the MERIT system (ESCRT-mediated repair, autophagy-mediated clearance, MCOLN1 activation, Ca2+ release, RRAG-GTPase regulation, MTOR modulation, TFEB activation, and activation of GTPase IRGM). Annexins ANAX1 and ANAX2 aid damage repair. Stress granules stabilize damaged membranes, recruiting FLCN-FNIP1/2, G3BP1, and NUFIP1 to inhibit MTOR and activate TFEB. Lysosomes coordinate the synergistic response to endomembrane damage and are vital for innate and adaptive immunity. Future research should unveil the collaborative actions of ATG proteins, LGALSs, TRIMs, autophagy receptors, and lysosomal proteins in lysosomal damage response.

Comprehensive Analysis and Experimental Validation of the Parkinson's Disease Lysosomal Gene ACP2 and Pan-cancer

The pivotal role of lysosomal function in preserving neuronal homeostasis is recognized, with its dysfunction being implicated in neurodegenerative processes, notably in Parkinson's disease (PD). Yet, the molecular underpinnings of lysosome-related genes (LRGs) in the context of PD remain partially elucidated. We collected RNA-seq data from the brain substantia nigra of 30 PD patients and 20 normal subjects from the GEO database. We obtained molecular classification clusters from the screened lysosomal expression patterns. The lysosome-related diagnostic model of Parkinson's disease was constructed by XGBoost and Random Forest. And we validated the expression patterns of signature LRGs in the diagnostic model by constructing a PD rat model. Finally, the linkage between PD and cancer through signature genes was explored. The expression patterns of the 33 LRGs screened can be divided into two groups of PD samples, enabling exploration of the variance in biological processes and immune elements. Cluster A had a higher disease severity. Subsequently, critical genes were sieved through the application of machine learning methodologies culminating in the identification of two intersecting feature genes (ACP2 and LRP2). A PD risk prediction model was constructed grounded on these signature genes. The model's validity was assessed through nomogram evaluation, which demonstrated robust confidence validity. Then we analyzed the correlation analysis, immune in-filtration, biological function, and rat expression validation of the two genes with common pathogenic genes in Parkinson's disease, indicating that these two genes play an important role in the pathogenesis of PD. We then selected ACP2, which had a significant immune infiltration correlation, as the entry gene for the pan-cancer analysis. The pan-cancer analysis revealed that ACP2 has profound associations with prognostic indicators, immune infiltration, and tumor-related regulatory processes across various neoplasms, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target in a range of human diseases, including PD and cancers. Our study comprehensively analyzed the molecular grouping of LRGs expression patterns in Parkinson's disease, and the disease progression was more severe in cluster A. And the PD diagnosis model related to LRGs is constructed. Finally, ACP2 is a potential target for the relationship between Parkinson's disease and tumor.

A potential patient stratification biomarker for Parkinson´s disease based on LRRK2 kinase-mediated centrosomal alterations in peripheral blood-derived cells

Parkinson´s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative movement disorder and leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is a promising therapeutic target for disease intervention. However, the ability to stratify patients who will benefit from such treatment modalities based on shared etiology is critical for the success of disease-modifying therapies. Ciliary and centrosomal alterations are commonly associated with pathogenic LRRK2 kinase activity and can be detected in many cell types. We previously found centrosomal deficits in immortalized lymphocytes from G2019S-LRRK2 PD patients. Here, to investigate whether such deficits may serve as a potential blood biomarker for PD which is susceptible to LRKK2 inhibitor treatment, we characterized patient-derived cells from distinct PD cohorts. We report centrosomal alterations in peripheral cells from a subset of early-stage idiopathic PD patients which is mitigated by LRRK2 kinase inhibition, supporting a role for aberrant LRRK2 activity in idiopathic PD. Centrosomal defects are detected in R1441G-LRRK2 and G2019S-LRRK2 PD patients and in non-manifesting LRRK2 mutation carriers, indicating that they accumulate prior to a clinical PD diagnosis. They are present in immortalized cells as well as in primary lymphocytes from peripheral blood. These findings indicate that analysis of centrosomal defects as a blood-based patient stratification biomarker may help nominate idiopathic PD patients who will benefit from LRRK2-related therapeutics.

Inhibition of LRRK2 kinase activity rescues deficits in striatal dopamine physiology in VPS35 p.D620N knock-in mice

Dysregulation of dopamine neurotransmission profoundly affects motor, motivation and learning behaviors, and can be observed during the prodromal phase of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the mechanism underlying these pathophysiological changes remains to be elucidated. Mutations in vacuolar protein sorting 35 (VPS35) and leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) both lead to autosomal dominant PD, and VPS35 and LRRK2 may physically interact to govern the trafficking of synaptic cargos within the endo-lysosomal network in a kinase-dependent manner. To better understand the functional role of VPS35 and LRRK2 on dopamine physiology, we examined Vps35 haploinsufficient (Haplo) and Vps35 p.D620N knock-in (VKI) mice and how their behavior, dopamine kinetics and biochemistry are influenced by LRRK2 kinase inhibitors. We found Vps35 p.D620N significantly elevates LRRK2-mediated phosphorylation of Rab10, Rab12 and Rab29. In contrast, Vps35 haploinsufficiency reduces phosphorylation of Rab12. While striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) expression and function is similarly impaired in both VKI and Haplo mice, that physiology is normalized in VKI by treatment with the LRRK2 kinase inhibitor, MLi-2. As a corollary, VKI animals show a significant increase in amphetamine induced hyperlocomotion, compared to Haplo mice, that is also abolished by MLi-2. Taken together, these data show Vps35 p.D620N confers a gain-of-function with respect to LRRK2 kinase activity, and that VPS35 and LRRK2 functionally interact to regulate DAT function and striatal dopamine transmission.

Brain Iron Metabolism, Redox Balance and Neurological Diseases

The incidence of neurological diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and stroke, is increasing. An increasing number of studies have correlated these diseases with brain iron overload and the resulting oxidative damage. Brain iron deficiency has also been closely linked to neurodevelopment. These neurological disorders seriously affect the physical and mental health of patients and bring heavy economic burdens to families and society. Therefore, it is important to maintain brain iron homeostasis and to understand the mechanism of brain iron disorders affecting reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance, resulting in neural damage, cell death and, ultimately, leading to the development of disease. Evidence has shown that many therapies targeting brain iron and ROS imbalances have good preventive and therapeutic effects on neurological diseases. This review highlights the molecular mechanisms, pathogenesis and treatment strategies of brain iron metabolism disorders in neurological diseases.

Insights into the cellular consequences of LRRK2-mediated Rab protein phosphorylation

Point mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) which cause Parkinson's disease increase its kinase activity, and a subset of Rab GTPases have been identified as endogenous LRRK2 kinase substrates. Their phosphorylation correlates with a loss-of-function for the membrane trafficking steps they are normally involved in, but it also allows them to bind to a novel set of effector proteins with dominant cellular consequences. In this brief review, we will summarize novel findings related to the LRRK2-mediated phosphorylation of Rab GTPases and its various cellular consequences in vitro and in the intact brain, and we will highlight major outstanding questions in the field.

Secretion of VGF relies on the interplay between LRRK2 and post-Golgi v-SNAREs

The neuropeptide VGF was recently proposed as a neurodegeneration biomarker. The Parkinson's disease-related protein leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) regulates endolysosomal dynamics, a process that involves SNARE-mediated membrane fusion and could regulate secretion. Here we investigate potential biochemical and functional links between LRRK2 and v-SNAREs. We find that LRRK2 directly interacts with the v-SNAREs VAMP4 and VAMP7. Secretomics reveals VGF secretory defects in VAMP4 and VAMP7 knockout (KO) neuronal cells. In contrast, VAMP2 KO "regulated secretion-null" and ATG5 KO "autophagy-null" cells release more VGF. VGF is partially associated with extracellular vesicles and LAMP1+ endolysosomes. LRRK2 expression increases VGF perinuclear localization and impairs its secretion. Retention using selective hooks (RUSH) assays show that a pool of VGF traffics through VAMP4+ and VAMP7+ compartments, and LRRK2 expression delays its transport to the cell periphery. Overexpression of LRRK2 or VAMP7-longin domain impairs VGF peripheral localization in primary cultured neurons. Altogether, our results suggest that LRRK2 might regulate VGF secretion via interaction with VAMP4 and VAMP7.

LRRK2: Genetic mechanisms vs genetic subtypes

In 2004, the identification of pathogenic variants in the LRRK2 gene across several families with autosomal dominant late-onset Parkinson's disease (PD) revolutionized our understanding of the role of genetics in PD. Previous beliefs that genetics in PD was limited to rare early-onset or familial forms of the disease were quickly dispelled. Currently, we recognize LRRK2 p.G2019S as the most common genetic cause of both sporadic and familial PD, with more than 100,000 affected carriers across the globe. The frequency of LRRK2 p.G2019S is also highly variable across populations, with some regions of Asian or Latin America reporting close to 0%, contrasting to Ashkenazi Jews or North African Berbers reporting up to 13% and 40%, respectively. Patients with LRRK2 pathogenic variants are clinically and pathologically heterogeneous, highlighting the age-related variable penetrance that also characterizes LRRK2-related disease. Indeed, the majority of patients with LRRK2-related disease are characterized by a relatively mild Parkinsonism with less motor symptoms with variable presence of α-synuclein and/or tau aggregates, with pathologic pleomorphism widely described. At a functional cellular level, it is likely that pathogenic variants mediate a toxic gain-of-function of the LRRK2 protein resulting in increased kinase activity perhaps in a cell-specific manner; by contrast, some LRRK2 variants appear to be protective reducing PD risk by decreasing the kinase activity. Therefore, employing this information to define appropriate patient populations for clinical trials of targeted kinase LRRK2 inhibition strategies is very promising and demonstrates a potential future application for PD using precision medicine.

Pathogenic Aspects and Therapeutic Avenues of Autophagy in Parkinson's Disease

The progressive aging of the population and the fact that Parkinson's disease currently does not have any curative treatment turn out to be essential issues in the following years, where research has to play a critical role in developing therapy. Understanding this neurodegenerative disorder keeps advancing, proving the discovery of new pathogenesis-related genes through genome-wide association analysis. Furthermore, the understanding of its close link with the disruption of autophagy mechanisms in the last few years permits the elaboration of new animal models mimicking, through multiple pathways, different aspects of autophagic dysregulation, with the presence of pathological hallmarks, in brain regions affected by Parkinson's disease. The synergic advances in these fields permit the elaboration of multiple therapeutic strategies for restoring autophagy activity. This review discusses the features of Parkinson's disease, the autophagy mechanisms and their involvement in pathogenesis, and the current methods to correct this cellular pathway, from the development of animal models to the potentially curative treatments in the preclinical and clinical phase studies, which are the hope for patients who do not currently have any curative treatment.

Rab11 and Its Role in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Vesicles mediate the trafficking of membranes/proteins in the endocytic and secretory pathways. These pathways are regulated by small GTPases of the Rab family. Rab proteins belong to the Ras superfamily of GTPases, which are significantly involved in various intracellular trafficking and signaling processes in the nervous system. Rab11 is known to play a key role especially in recycling many proteins, including receptors important for signal transduction and preservation of functional activities of nerve cells. Rab11 activity is controlled by GEFs (guanine exchange factors) and GAPs (GTPase activating proteins), which regulate its function through modulating GTP/GDP exchange and the intrinsic GTPase activity, respectively. Rab11 is involved in the transport of several growth factor molecules important for the development and repair of neurons. Overexpression of Rab11 has been shown to significantly enhance vesicle trafficking. On the other hand, a reduced expression of Rab11 was observed in several neurodegenerative diseases. Current evidence appears to support the notion that Rab11 and its cognate proteins may be potential targets for therapeutic intervention. In this review, we briefly discuss the function of Rab11 and its related interaction partners in intracellular pathways that may be involved in neurodegenerative processes.

Structural basis for Parkinson's disease-linked LRRK2's binding to microtubules

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is one of the most commonly mutated genes in familial Parkinson's disease (PD). Under some circumstances, LRRK2 co-localizes with microtubules in cells, an association enhanced by PD mutations. We report a cryo-EM structure of the catalytic half of LRRK2, containing its kinase, in a closed conformation, and GTPase domains, bound to microtubules. We also report a structure of the catalytic half of LRRK1, which is closely related to LRRK2 but is not linked to PD. Although LRRK1's structure is similar to that of LRRK2, we find that LRRK1 does not interact with microtubules. Guided by these structures, we identify amino acids in LRRK2's GTPase that mediate microtubule binding; mutating them disrupts microtubule binding in vitro and in cells, without affecting LRRK2's kinase activity. Our results have implications for the design of therapeutic LRRK2 kinase inhibitors.

Parkinson-causing mutations in LRRK2 impair the physiological tetramerization of endogenous α-synuclein in human neurons

α-Synuclein (αSyn) aggregation in Lewy bodies and neurites defines both familial and 'sporadic' Parkinson's disease. We previously identified α-helically folded αSyn tetramers, in addition to the long-known unfolded monomers, in normal cells. PD-causing αSyn mutations decrease the tetramer:monomer (T:M) ratio, associated with αSyn hyperphosphorylation and cytotoxicity in neurons and a motor syndrome of tremor and gait deficits in transgenic mice that responds in part to L-DOPA. Here, we asked whether LRRK2 mutations, the most common genetic cause of cases previously considered sporadic PD, also alter tetramer homeostasis. Patient neurons carrying G2019S, the most prevalent LRRK2 mutation, or R1441C each had decreased T:M ratios and pSer129 hyperphosphorylation of their endogenous αSyn along with increased phosphorylation of Rab10, a widely reported substrate of LRRK2 kinase activity. Two LRRK2 kinase inhibitors normalized the T:M ratio and the hyperphosphorylation in the G2019S and R1441C patient neurons. An inhibitor of stearoyl-CoA desaturase, the rate-limiting enzyme for monounsaturated fatty acid synthesis, also restored the αSyn T:M ratio and reversed pSer129 hyperphosphorylation in both mutants. Coupled with the recent discovery that PD-causing mutations of glucocerebrosidase in Gaucher's neurons also decrease T:M ratios, our findings indicate that three dominant genetic forms of PD involve life-long destabilization of αSyn physiological tetramers as a common pathogenic mechanism that can occur upstream of progressive neuronal synucleinopathy. Based on αSyn's finely-tuned interaction with certain vesicles, we hypothesize that the fatty acid composition and fluidity of membranes regulate αSyn's correct binding to highly curved membranes and subsequent assembly into metastable tetramers.

Oxidative stress and synaptic dysfunction in rodent models of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a multifactorial disorder involving a complex interplay between a variety of genetic and environmental factors. In this scenario, mitochondrial impairment and oxidative stress are widely accepted as crucial neuropathogenic mechanisms, as also evidenced by the identification of PD-associated genes that are directly involved in mitochondrial function. The concept of mitochondrial dysfunction is closely linked to that of synaptic dysfunction. Indeed, compelling evidence supports the role of mitochondria in synaptic transmission and plasticity, although many aspects have not yet been fully elucidated. Here, we will provide a brief overview of the most relevant evidence obtained in different neurotoxin-based and genetic rodent models of PD, focusing on mitochondrial impairment and synaptopathy, an early central event preceding overt nigrostriatal neurodegeneration. The identification of early deficits occurring in PD pathogenesis is crucial in view of the development of potential disease-modifying therapeutic strategies.

The Role of Rab Proteins in Parkinson's Disease Synaptopathy

In patients affected by Parkinson's disease (PD), the most common neurodegenerative movement disorder, the brain is characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the nigrostriatal system, leading to dyshomeostasis of the basal ganglia network activity that is linked to motility dysfunction. PD mostly arises as an age-associated sporadic disease, but several genetic forms also exist. Compelling evidence supports that synaptic damage and dysfunction characterize the very early phases of either sporadic or genetic forms of PD and that this early PD synaptopathy drives retrograde terminal-to-cell body degeneration, culminating in neuronal loss. The Ras-associated binding protein (Rab) family of small GTPases, which is involved in the maintenance of neuronal vesicular trafficking, synaptic architecture and function in the central nervous system, has recently emerged among the major players in PD synaptopathy. In this manuscript, we provide an overview of the main findings supporting the involvement of Rabs in either sporadic or genetic PD pathophysiology, and we highlight how Rab alterations participate in the onset of early synaptic damage and dysfunction.

The LRRK2 signaling network converges on a centriolar phospho-Rab10/RILPL1 complex to cause deficits in centrosome cohesion and cell polarization

The Parkinson's-disease-associated LRRK2 kinase phosphorylates multiple Rab GTPases including Rab8 and Rab10, which enhances their binding to RILPL1 and RILPL2. The nascent interaction between phospho-Rab10 and RILPL1 blocks ciliogenesis in vitro and in the intact brain, and interferes with the cohesion of duplicated centrosomes in dividing cells. We show here that regulators of the LRRK2 signaling pathway including vps35 and PPM1H converge upon causing centrosomal deficits. The cohesion alterations do not require the presence of other LRRK2 kinase substrates including Rab12, Rab35 and Rab43 or the presence of RILPL2. Rather, they depend on the RILPL1-mediated centrosomal accumulation of phosphorylated Rab10. RILPL1 localizes to the subdistal appendage of the mother centriole, followed by recruitment of the LRRK2-phosphorylated Rab proteins to cause the centrosomal defects. The centrosomal alterations impair cell polarization as monitored by scratch wound assays which is reverted by LRRK2 kinase inhibition. These data reveal a common molecular pathway by which enhanced LRRK2 kinase activity impacts upon centrosome-related events to alter the normal biology of a cell.

Summary: The Parkinson's disease LRRK2 signaling pathway converges upon the formation of a complex at the subdistal appendage of the mother centriole which causes centrosomal deficits and impairs appropriate cell polarization.

Trafficking of the glutamate transporter is impaired in LRRK2-related Parkinson's disease

The Excitatory Amino Acid Transporter 2 (EAAT2) accounts for 80% of brain glutamate clearance and is mainly expressed in astrocytic perisynaptic processes. EAAT2 function is finely regulated by endocytic events, recycling to the plasma membrane and degradation. Noteworthy, deficits in EAAT2 have been associated with neuronal excitotoxicity and neurodegeneration. In this study, we show that EAAT2 trafficking is impaired by the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) pathogenic variant G2019S, a common cause of late-onset familial Parkinson’s disease (PD). In LRRK2 G2019S human brains and experimental animal models, EAAT2 protein levels are significantly decreased, which is associated with elevated gliosis. The decreased expression of the transporter correlates with its reduced functionality in mouse LRRK2 G2019S purified astrocytic terminals and in Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing human LRRK2 G2019S. In LRRK2 G2019S knock-in mouse brain, the correct surface localization of the endogenous transporter is impaired, resulting in its interaction with a plethora of endo-vesicular proteins. Mechanistically, we report that pathogenic LRRK2 kinase activity delays the recycling of the transporter to the plasma membrane via Rabs inactivation, causing its intracellular re-localization and degradation. Taken together, our results demonstrate that pathogenic LRRK2 interferes with the physiology of EAAT2, pointing to extracellular glutamate overload as a possible contributor to neurodegeneration in PD.

LRRK2 and idiopathic Parkinson's disease

The etiology of idiopathic Parkinson's disease (iPD) is multifactorial, and both genetics and environmental exposures are risk factors. While mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase-2 (LRRK2) that are associated with increased kinase activity are the most common cause of autosomal dominant PD, the role of LRRK2 in iPD, independent of mutations, remains uncertain. In this review, we discuss how the architecture of LRRK2 influences kinase activation and how enhanced LRRK2 substrate phosphorylation might contribute to pathogenesis. We describe how oxidative stress and endolysosomal dysfunction, both of which occur in iPD, can activate non-mutated LRRK2 to a similar degree as pathogenic mutations. Similarly, environmental toxicants that are linked epidemiologically to iPD risk can also activate LRRK2. In aggregate, current evidence suggests an important role for LRRK2 in iPD.

LRRK2 mutant knock-in mouse models: therapeutic relevance in Parkinson's disease

Mutations in the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 gene (LRRK2) are one of the most frequent genetic causes of both familial and sporadic Parkinson’s disease (PD). Mounting evidence has demonstrated pathological similarities between LRRK2-associated PD (LRRK2-PD) and sporadic PD, suggesting that LRRK2 is a potential disease modulator and a therapeutic target in PD. LRRK2 mutant knock-in (KI) mouse models display subtle alterations in pathological aspects that mirror early-stage PD, including increased susceptibility of nigrostriatal neurotransmission, development of motor and non-motor symptoms, mitochondrial and autophagy-lysosomal defects and synucleinopathies. This review provides a rationale for the use of LRRK2 KI mice to investigate the LRRK2-mediated pathogenesis of PD and implications from current findings from different LRRK2 KI mouse models, and ultimately discusses the therapeutic potentials against LRRK2-associated pathologies in PD.

Regulation of neuronal autophagy and the implications in neurodegenerative diseases

Neurons are highly polarized and post-mitotic cells with the specific requirements of neurotransmission accompanied by high metabolic demands that create a unique challenge for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. Thus, neurons rely heavily on autophagy that constitutes a key quality control system by which dysfunctional cytoplasmic components, protein aggregates, and damaged organelles are sequestered within autophagosomes and then delivered to the lysosome for degradation. While mature lysosomes are predominantly located in the soma of neurons, the robust, constitutive biogenesis of autophagosomes occurs in the synaptic terminal via a conserved pathway that is required to maintain synaptic integrity and function. Following formation, autophagosomes fuse with late endosomes and then are rapidly and efficiently transported by the microtubule-based cytoplasmic dynein motor along the axon toward the soma for lysosomal clearance. In this review, we highlight the recent knowledge of the roles of autophagy in neuronal health and disease. We summarize the available evidence about the normal functions of autophagy as a protective factor against neurodegeneration and discuss the mechanism underlying neuronal autophagy regulation. Finally, we describe how autophagy function is affected in major neurodegenerative diseases with a special focus on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.

Rab GTPases in Parkinson's disease: a primer

Parkinson's disease is a prominent and debilitating movement disorder characterized by the death of vulnerable neurons which share a set of structural and physiological properties. Over the recent years, increasing evidence indicates that Rab GTPases can directly as well as indirectly contribute to the cellular alterations leading to PD. Rab GTPases are master regulators of intracellular membrane trafficking events, and alterations in certain membrane trafficking steps can be particularly disruptive to vulnerable neurons. Here, we describe current knowledge on the direct links between altered Rab protein function and PD pathomechanisms.

Mutations in LRRK2 linked to Parkinson disease sequester Rab8a to damaged lysosomes and regulate transferrin-mediated iron uptake in microglia

Mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) cause autosomal dominant Parkinson disease (PD), while polymorphic LRRK2 variants are associated with sporadic PD. PD-linked mutations increase LRRK2 kinase activity and induce neurotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. The small GTPase Rab8a is a LRRK2 kinase substrate and is involved in receptor-mediated recycling and endocytic trafficking of transferrin, but the effect of PD-linked LRRK2 mutations on the function of Rab8a is poorly understood. Here, we show that gain-of-function mutations in LRRK2 induce sequestration of endogenous Rab8a to lysosomes in overexpression cell models, while pharmacological inhibition of LRRK2 kinase activity reverses this phenotype. Furthermore, we show that LRRK2 mutations drive association of endocytosed transferrin with Rab8a-positive lysosomes. LRRK2 has been nominated as an integral part of cellular responses downstream of proinflammatory signals and is activated in microglia in postmortem PD tissue. Here, we show that iPSC-derived microglia from patients carrying the most common LRRK2 mutation, G2019S, mistraffic transferrin to lysosomes proximal to the nucleus in proinflammatory conditions. Furthermore, G2019S knock-in mice show a significant increase in iron deposition in microglia following intrastriatal LPS injection compared to wild-type mice, accompanied by striatal accumulation of ferritin. Our data support a role of LRRK2 in modulating iron uptake and storage in response to proinflammatory stimuli in microglia.

Brain iron deposition is a feature of Parkinson’s disease pathology, but how this contributes to neurodegeneration is unclear. This study show that Parkinson’s disease-linked mutations in LRRK2 cause aberrant brain iron accumulation in vivo and iron dyshomeostasis in vitro, supporting a role of LRRK2 in modulating iron uptake and storage in response to proinflammatory stimuli in microglia.

LRRK2 signaling in neurodegeneration: two decades of progress

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is a complex GTPase/kinase orchestrating cytoskeletal dynamics and multiple steps of the endolysosomal pathway through interaction with a host of partners and phosphorylation of a subset of Rab GTPases. Mutations in LRRK2 cause late-onset Parkinson's disease (PD) and common variants in the locus containing LRRK2 have been associated with sporadic PD, progressive supranuclear palsy as well as a number of inflammatory diseases. This review encompasses the major discoveries in the field of LRRK2 pathobiology, from the initial gene cloning to the latest progress in LRRK2 inhibition as a promising therapeutic approach to fight neurodegeneration.

LRRK2 along the Golgi and lysosome connection: a jamming situation

Parkinson's disease (PD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder, clinically characterized by bradykinesia, rigidity, and resting tremor. Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2 (LRRK2) is a large, multidomain protein containing two enzymatic domains. Missense mutations in its coding sequence are amongst the most common causes of familial PD. The physiological and pathological impact of LRRK2 is still obscure, but accumulating evidence supports a role for LRRK2 in membrane and vesicle trafficking, mainly functioning in the endosome-recycling system, (synaptic) vesicle trafficking, autophagy, and lysosome biology. LRRK2 binds and phosphorylates key regulators of the endomembrane systems and is dynamically localized at the Golgi. The impact of LRRK2 on the Golgi may reverberate throughout the entire endomembrane system and occur in multiple intersecting pathways, including endocytosis, autophagy, and lysosomal function. This would lead to overall dysregulation of cellular homeostasis and protein catabolism, leading to neuronal dysfunction and accumulation of toxic protein species, thus underlying the possible neurotoxic effect of LRRK2 mutations causing PD.

Glucocerebrosidase 1 and leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 in Parkinson disease and interplay between the two genes

The glucocerebrosidase 1 gene (GBA1), bi-allelic variants of which cause Gaucher disease (GD), encodes the lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase (GCase) and is a risk factor for Parkinson Disease (PD). GBA1 variants are linked to a reduction in GCase activity in the brain. Variants in Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2 (LRRK2), such as the gain-of-kinase-function variant G2019S, cause the most common familial form of PD. In patients without GBA1 and LRRK2 mutations, GCase and LRRK2 activity are also altered, suggesting that these two genes are implicated in all forms of PD and that they may play a broader role in PD pathogenesis. In this review, we review the proposed roles of GBA1 and LRRK2 in PD, focussing on the endolysosomal pathway. In particular, we highlight the discovery of Ras-related in brain (Rab) guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) as LRRK2 kinase substrates and explore the links between increased LRRK2 activity and Rab protein function, lysosomal dysfunction, alpha-synuclein accumulation and GCase activity. We also discuss the discovery of RAB10 as a potential mediator of LRRK2 and GBA1 interaction in PD. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic implications of these findings, including current approaches and future perspectives related to novel drugs targeting LRRK2 and GBA1.

LRRK2 is required for CD38-mediated NAADP-Ca2+ signaling and the downstream activation of TFEB (transcription factor EB) in immune cells

CD38 is a cell surface receptor capable of generating calcium-mobilizing second messengers. It has been implicated in host defense and cancer biology, but signaling mechanisms downstream of CD38 remain unclear. Mutations in LRRK2 (leucine-rich repeat kinase 2) are the most common genetic cause of Parkinson disease; it is also a risk factor for Crohn disease, leprosy, and certain types of cancers. The pathogenesis of these diseases involves inflammation and macroautophagy/autophagy, processes both CD38 and LRRK2 are implicated in. Here, we mechanistically and functionally link CD38 and LRRK2 as upstream activators of TFEB (transcription factor EB), a host defense transcription factor and the master transcriptional regulator of the autophagy/lysosome machinery. In B-lymphocytes and macrophages, we show that CD38 and LRRK2 exist in a complex on the plasma membrane. Ligation of CD38 with the monoclonal antibody clone 90 results in internalization of the CD38-LRRK2 complex and its targeting to the endolysosomal system. This generates an NAADP-dependent calcium signal, which requires LRRK2 kinase activity, and results in the downstream activation of TFEB. lrrk2 KO macrophages accordingly have TFEB activation defects following CD38 or LPS stimulation and fail to switch to glycolytic metabolism after LPS treatment. In overexpression models, the pathogenic LRRK2^G2019S mutant promotes hyperactivation of TFEB even in the absence of CD38, both by stabilizing TFEB and promoting its nuclear translocation via aberrant calcium signaling. In sum, we have identified a physiological CD38-LRRK2-TFEB signaling axis in immune cells. The common pathogenic mutant, LRRK2^G2019S, appears to hijack this pathway.

Abbreviations:ADPR: ADP-ribose; AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase; BMDM: bone marrow-derived macrophage; cADPR: cyclic-ADP-ribose; COR: C-terminal of ROC; CTSD: cathepsin D; ECAR: extracellular acidification rate; EDTA: ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid; GAPDH: glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase; GFP: green fluorescent protein; GPN: Gly-Phe β-naphthylamide; GSK3B/GSK3β: glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta; GTP: guanosine triphosphate; KD: knockdown; LAMP1: lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1; LRR: leucine rich repeat; LRRK2: leucine rich repeat kinase 2; mAb: monoclonal antibody; MAP1LC3B/LC3B: microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta; MAPK/ERK: mitogen-activated protein kinase; MCOLN1: mucolipin 1; MFI: mean fluorescence intensity; mRNA: messenger RNA; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; NAADP: nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate; NAD: nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide; NADP: nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate; PD: Parkinson disease; PPP3CB: protein phosphatase 3, catalytic subunit, beta isoform; q-RT-PCR: quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction; ROC: Ras of complex; siRNA: small interfering RNA; SQSTM1/p62: sequestome 1; TFEB: transcription factor EB; TPCN: two pore channel; TRPM2: transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily M, member 2; ZKSCAN3: zinc finger with KRAB and SCAN domains 3

Abrogation of LRRK2 dependent Rab10 phosphorylation with TLR4 activation and alterations in evoked cytokine release in immune cells

LRRK2 protein is expressed prominently in immune cells, cell types whose contribution to LRRK2-associated genetic Parkinson's disease (PD) is increasingly being recognised. We investigated the effect of inflammatory stimuli using RAW264.7 murine macrophage cells as model systems. A detailed time course of TLR2 and TLR4 stimulation was investigated through measuring LRRK2 phosphorylation at its specific phospho-sites, and Rab8 and Rab10 phosphorylation together with cytokine release following treatment with LPS and zymosan. LRRK2 phosphorylation at Ser935, Ser955 and Ser973 was increased significantly over untreated conditions at 4-24h in both WT-LRRK2 and T1348N-LRRK2 cell lines to similar extents although levels of Ser910 phosphorylation were maintained at higher levels throughout. Importantly we demonstrate that LPS stimulation significantly decreased phospho-Rab10 but not phospho-Rab8 levels over 4-24h in both WT-LRRK2 and T1348N-LRRK2 cell lines. The dephosphorylation of Rab10 was not attributed to its specific phosphatase, PPM1H as the levels remained unaltered with LPS treatment. MAPK phosphorylation occurred prior to LRRK2 phosphorylation which was validated by blocking TLR4 and TLR2 receptors with TAK242 or Sparstolonin B respectively. A significant decrease in basal level of TNFα release was noted in both T1348N-LRRK2 and KO-LRRK2 cell lines at 48h compared to WT-LRRK2 cell line, however LPS and zymosan treatment did not cause any significant alteration in the TNFα and IL-6 release between the three cell lines. In contrast, LPS and zymosan caused significantly lower IL-10 release in T1348N-LRRK2 and KO-LRRK2 cell lines. A significant decrease in phospho-Rab10 levels was also confirmed in human IPS-derived macrophages with TLR4 activation. Our data demonstrates for the first time that LRRK2-dependent Rab10 phosphorylation is modulated by LPS stimulation, and that cytokine release may be influenced by the status of LRRK2. These data provide further insights into the function of LRRK2 in immune response, and has relevance for understanding cellular dysfunctions when developing LRRK2-based inhibitors for clinical treatment.

A new approach to analysis of intracellular proteins and subcellular localization using cellprofiler and imageJ in combination

Analytical pipeline, which is used for various analysis application, of CellProfiler, an open-source software for cell imaging analysis, is very important. In the present study, to examine whether intracellular proteins can be discriminated using a combination of CellProfiler and ImageJ, we analyzed neuroblastoma and monocytic cell lines, and disease-specific induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons. This revealed that scattered puncta of Rab7 and transferrin in neuroblastoma lines were clearly detectable by created analytical pipelines in CellProfiler. We then constructed pipelines for measuring the distance from the center of the nucleus to allow investigation of the intracellular localization of Rab7 or transferrin. Using CellProfiler and ImageJ in combination, we confirmed that our pipelines were applicable both quantitatively and objectively to analysis of membrane trafficking of proteins such as Rab proteins and transferrin. In addition, when applied to quantitative measurement of phagocytosis, our pipelines clearly detected monocytic cell lines that had engulfed bioparticles. Finally, we developed new pipelines for analysis of disease phenotype using iPSCs from a patient with familial Parkinson's disease (PD), harboring the I2020T LRRK2 mutation (PARK8). These were able to successfully detect Rab5 puncta and Rab7 puncta in PARK8 patient iPSC-derived neurons. Interestingly, in long-term culture, we found that the numbers of Rab7 puncta in a single PARK8 patient iPSC-derived neurons were lower than that of control iPSC-derived neurons. On the other hands, at 14 days in vitro, the numbers of Rab5 puncta in PARK8 patient iPSC-derived neurons were lower than those of isogenic iPSC-derived neurons, but not Rab7 puncta. Furthermore, Rab5 puncta of PARK8 patient iPSC-derived neurons exhibited distinct localization pattern relative to isogenic iPSC-derived neurons. These present results suggest that this new analytical tool can be used as a supporting method for quantification of intracellular protein.

Periphery and brain, innate and adaptive immunity in Parkinson's disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder where alpha-synuclein plays a central role in the death and dysfunction of neurons, both, in central, as well as in the peripheral nervous system. Besides the neuronal events observed in patients, PD also includes a significant immune component. It is suggested that the PD-associated immune response will have consequences on neuronal health, thus opening immunomodulation as a potential therapeutic strategy in PD. The immune changes during the disease occur in the brain, involving microglia, but also in the periphery with changes in cells of the innate immune system, particularly monocytes, as well as those of adaptive immunity, such as T-cells. This realization arises from multiple patient studies, but also from data in animal models of the disease, providing strong evidence for innate and adaptive immune system crosstalk in the central nervous system and periphery in PD. Here we review the data showing that alpha-synuclein plays a crucial role in the activation of the innate and adaptive immune system. We will also describe the studies suggesting that inflammation in PD includes early changes in innate and adaptive immune cells that develop dynamically through time during disease, contributing to neuronal degeneration and symptomatology in patients. This novel finding has contributed to the definition of PD as a multisystem disease that should be approached in a more integratory manner rather than a brain-focused classical approach.

Rab11-mediated focal adhesion turnover in sarcoma cell migration

Focal adhesion (FA) turnover has been demonstrated to play an important role in cell migration; however, the mechanism of FA turnover is complicated and requires further investigation. In this study, Rab11, which is involved in endosome recycling, was examined in terms of a direct regulatory function in FA formation during cell migration. Wild-type and dominant negative (DN) Rab11 or shRab11 were transfected into human HT1080 fibrosarcoma cells; the cell motility and migration abilities were determined, and localization of Rab11 and FA molecules was monitored by confocal microscopy. The results showed that Rab11 deficiency or the DN form inhibited sarcoma cell migration. Rab11 was also found to be co-localized with recycled β1 integrin and affected FA formation. We further employed immunofluorescence and immunoprecipitation to examine the physical interaction between Rab11 and focal adhesion kinase (FAK), and the results suggested that Rab11 affected cell migration by regulating FAK recycling to aid formation of an FA complex on the cell membrane.

Mitophagy, a Form of Selective Autophagy, Plays an Essential Role in Mitochondrial Dynamics of Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder caused by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and affects millions of people. Currently, mitochondrial dysfunction is considered as a central role in the pathogenesis of both sporadic and familial forms of PD. Mitophagy, a process that selectively targets damaged or redundant mitochondria to the lysosome for elimination via the autophagy devices, is crucial in preserving mitochondrial health. So far, aberrant mitophagy has been observed in the postmortem of PD patients and genetic or toxin-induced models of PD. Except for mitochondrial dysfunction, mitophagy is involved in regulating several other PD-related pathological mechanisms as well, e.g., oxidative stress and calcium imbalance. So far, the mitophagy mechanisms induced by PD-related proteins, PINK1 and Parkin, have been studied widely, and several other PD-associated genes, e.g., DJ-1, LRRK2, and alpha-synuclein, have been discovered to participate in the regulation of mitophagy as well, which further strengthens the link between mitophagy and PD. Thus, in this view, we reviewed mitophagy pathways in belief and discussed the interactions between mitophagy and several PD's pathological mechanisms and how PD-related genes modulate the mitophagy process.

Pathological Functions of LRRK2 in Parkinson's Disease

Mutations in the gene encoding leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are common genetic risk factors for both familial and sporadic Parkinson’s disease (PD). Pathogenic mutations in LRRK2 have been shown to induce changes in its activity, and abnormal increase in LRRK2 kinase activity is thought to contribute to PD pathology. The precise molecular mechanisms underlying LRRK2-associated PD pathology are far from clear, however the identification of LRRK2 substrates and the elucidation of cellular pathways involved suggest a role of LRRK2 in microtubule dynamics, vesicular trafficking, and synaptic transmission. Moreover, LRRK2 is associated with pathologies of α-synuclein, a major component of Lewy bodies (LBs). Evidence from various cellular and animal models supports a role of LRRK2 in the regulation of aggregation and propagation of α-synuclein. Here, we summarize our current understanding of how pathogenic mutations dysregulate LRRK2 and discuss the possible mechanisms leading to neurodegeneration.

LRRK2 and the Endolysosomal System in Parkinson's Disease

Mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) cause autosomal dominant familial Parkinson’s disease (PD), with pathogenic mutations enhancing LRRK2 kinase activity. There is a growing body of evidence indicating that LRRK2 contributes to neuronal damage and pathology both in familial and sporadic PD, making it of particular interest for understanding the molecular pathways that underlie PD. Although LRRK2 has been extensively studied to date, our understanding of the seemingly diverse functions of LRRK2 throughout the cell remains incomplete. In this review, we discuss the functions of LRRK2 within the endolysosomal pathway. Endocytosis, vesicle trafficking pathways, and lysosomal degradation are commonly disrupted in many neurodegenerative diseases, including PD. Additionally, many PD-linked gene products function in these intersecting pathways, suggesting an important role for the endolysosomal system in maintaining protein homeostasis and neuronal health in PD. LRRK2 activity can regulate synaptic vesicle endocytosis, lysosomal function, Golgi network maintenance and sorting, vesicular trafficking and autophagy, with alterations in LRRK2 kinase activity serving to disrupt or regulate these pathways depending on the distinct cell type or model system. LRRK2 is critically regulated by at least two proteins in the endolysosomal pathway, Rab29 and VPS35, which may serve as master regulators of LRRK2 kinase activity. Investigating the function and regulation of LRRK2 in the endolysosomal pathway in diverse PD models, especially in vivo models, will provide critical insight into the cellular and molecular pathophysiological mechanisms driving PD and whether LRRK2 represents a viable drug target for disease-modification in familial and sporadic PD.

Mechanisms of neuronal survival safeguarded by endocytosis and autophagy

Multiple aspects of neuronal physiology crucially depend on two cellular pathways, autophagy and endocytosis. During endocytosis, extracellular components either unbound or recognized by membrane-localized receptors (termed "cargo") become internalized into plasma membrane-derived vesicles. These can serve to either recycle the material back to the plasma membrane or send it for degradation to lysosomes. Autophagy also uses lysosomes as a terminal degradation point, although instead of degrading the plasma membrane-derived cargo, autophagy eliminates detrimental cytosolic material and intracellular organelles, which are transported to lysosomes by means of double-membrane vesicles, referred to as autophagosomes. Neurons, like all non-neuronal cells, capitalize on autophagy and endocytosis to communicate with the environment and maintain protein and organelle homeostasis. Additionally, the highly polarized, post-mitotic nature of neurons made them adopt these two pathways for cell-specific functions. These include the maintenance of the synaptic vesicle pool in the pre-synaptic terminal and the long-distance transport of signaling molecules. Originally discovered independently from each other, it is now clear that autophagy and endocytosis are closely interconnected and share several common participating molecules. Considering the crucial role of autophagy and endocytosis in cell type-specific functions in neurons, it is not surprising that defects in both pathways have been linked to the pathology of numerous neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we highlight the recent knowledge of the role of endocytosis and autophagy in neurons with a special focus on synaptic physiology and discuss how impairments in genes coding for autophagy and endocytosis proteins can cause neurodegeneration.

Phosphorylation of Rab GTPases in the regulation of membrane trafficking

Rab GTPases are master regulators of membrane trafficking in eukaryotic cells. Phosphorylation of Rab GTPases was characterized in the 1990s and there have been intermittent reports of its relevance to Rab functions. Phosphorylation as a regulatory mechanism has gained prominence through the identification of Rabs as physiological substrates of leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2). LRRK2 is a Ser/Thr kinase that is associated with inherited and sporadic forms of Parkinson disease. In recent years, numerous kinases and their associated signaling pathways have been identified that lead to phosphorylation of Rabs. These emerging studies suggest that serine/threonine and tyrosine phosphorylation of Rabs may be a widespread and under‐appreciated mechanism for controlling their membrane trafficking functions. Here we survey current knowledge of Rab phosphorylation and discuss models for how this post‐translational mechanism exerts control of membrane trafficking.

A Critical LRRK at the Synapse? The Neurobiological Function and Pathophysiological Dysfunction of LRRK2

Since the discovery of LRRK2 mutations causal to Parkinson's disease (PD) in the early 2000s, the LRRK2 protein has been implicated in a plethora of cellular processes in which pathogenesis could occur, yet its physiological function remains elusive. The development of genetic models of LRRK2 PD has helped identify the etiological and pathophysiological underpinnings of the disease, and may identify early points of intervention. An important role for LRRK2 in synaptic function has emerged in recent years, which links LRRK2 to other genetic forms of PD, most notably those caused by mutations in the synaptic protein α-synuclein. This point of convergence may provide useful clues as to what drives dysfunction in the basal ganglia circuitry and eventual death of substantia nigra (SN) neurons. Here, we discuss the evolution and current state of the literature placing LRRK2 at the synapse, through the lens of knock-out, overexpression, and knock-in animal models. We hope that a deeper understanding of LRRK2 neurobiology, at the synapse and beyond, will aid the eventual development of neuroprotective interventions for PD, and the advancement of useful treatments in the interim.

Role of EGFR in the Nervous System

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is the first discovered member of the receptor tyrosine kinase superfamily and plays a fundamental role during embryogenesis and in adult tissues, being involved in growth, differentiation, maintenance and repair of various tissues and organs. The role of EGFR in the regulation of tissue development and homeostasis has been thoroughly investigated and it has also been demonstrated that EGFR is a driver of tumorigenesis. In the nervous system, other growth factors, and thus other receptors, are important for growth, differentiation and repair of the tissue, namely neurotrophins and neurotrophins receptors. For this reason, for a long time, the role of EGFR in the nervous system has been underestimated and poorly investigated. However, EGFR is expressed both in the central and peripheral nervous systems and it has been demonstrated to have specific important neurotrophic functions, in particular in the central nervous system. This review discusses the role of EGFR in regulating differentiation and functions of neurons and neuroglia. Furthermore, its involvement in regeneration after injury and in the onset of neurodegenerative diseases is examined.

The Michael J. Fox Foundation's Strategies for Accelerating Translation of LRRK2 into Therapies for Parkinson Disease

Since 2005, The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research (MJFF) has invested significant funding and non-funding effort to accelerate research and drug development activity around the Parkinson disease (PD)-associated protein LRRK2. MJFF has spearheaded multiple public/private pre-competitive collaborations that have contributed to our understanding of LRRK2 function; de-risked potential safety questions around the therapeutic use of LRRK2 kinase inhibitors; and generated critical research tools, biosamples, and data for the field. Several LRRK2-targeted therapies are now in human testing due to the hard work of so many in the PD community. In this perspective, we present a holistic description and model of how our Foundation's support targeted important barriers to LRRK2 research and helped move the field into clinical trials.

Distinct Roles for RAB10 and RAB29 in Pathogenic LRRK2-Mediated Endolysosomal Trafficking Alterations

Summary Statement

Pathogenic LRRK2 expression causes endolysosomal trafficking alterations by impairing RAB10 function, and these alterations are rescued by RAB29 independent of its Golgi localization.

Abstract

Mutations in the gene encoding leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) cause familial Parkinson’s disease, and sequence variations are associated with the sporadic form of the disease. LRRK2 phosphorylates a subset of RAB proteins implicated in secretory and recycling trafficking pathways, including RAB8A and RAB10. Another RAB protein, RAB29, has been reported to recruit LRRK2 to the Golgi, where it stimulates its kinase activity. Our previous studies revealed that G2019S LRRK2 expression or knockdown of RAB8A deregulate epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) trafficking, with a concomitant accumulation of the receptor in a RAB4-positive recycling compartment. Here, we show that the G2019S LRRK2-mediated EGFR deficits are mimicked by knockdown of RAB10 and rescued by expression of active RAB10. By contrast, RAB29 knockdown is without effect, but expression of RAB29 also rescues the pathogenic LRRK2-mediated trafficking deficits independently of Golgi integrity. Our data suggest that G2019S LRRK2 deregulates endolysosomal trafficking by impairing the function of RAB8A and RAB10, while RAB29 positively modulates non-Golgi-related trafficking events impaired by pathogenic LRRK2.

Progress in LRRK2-Associated Parkinson's Disease Animal Models

Mutations in the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene are the most frequent cause of familial Parkinson's disease (PD). Several genetic manipulations of the LRRK2 gene have been developed in animal models such as rodents, Drosophila, Caenorhabditis elegans, and zebrafish. These models can help us further understand the biological function and derive potential pathological mechanisms for LRRK2. Here we discuss common phenotypic themes found in LRRK2-associated PD animal models, highlight several issues that should be addressed in future models, and discuss emerging areas to guide their future development.

Sequential screening nominates the Parkinson's disease associated kinase LRRK2 as a regulator of Clathrin-mediated endocytosis

Mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are an established cause of inherited Parkinson's disease (PD). LRRK2 is expressed in both neurons and glia in the central nervous system, but its physiological function(s) in each of these cell types is uncertain. Through sequential screens, we report a functional interaction between LRRK2 and Clathrin adaptor protein complex 2 (AP2). Analysis of LRRK2 KO tissue revealed a significant dysregulation of AP2 complex components, suggesting LRRK2 may act upstream of AP2. In line with this hypothesis, expression of LRRK2 was found to modify recruitment and phosphorylation of AP2. Furthermore, expression of LRRK2 containing the R1441C pathogenic mutation resulted in impaired clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME). A decrease in activity-dependent synaptic vesicle endocytosis was also observed in neurons harboring an endogenous R1441C LRRK2 mutation. Alongside LRRK2, several PD-associated genes intersect with membrane-trafficking pathways. To investigate the genetic association between Clathrin-trafficking and PD, we used polygenetic risk profiling from IPDGC genome wide association studies (GWAS) datasets. Clathrin-dependent endocytosis genes were found to be associated with PD across multiple cohorts, suggesting common variants at these loci represent a cumulative risk factor for disease. Taken together, these findings suggest CME is a LRRK2-mediated, PD relevant pathway.

LRRK2-Related Parkinson's Disease Due to Altered Endolysosomal Biology With Variable Lewy Body Pathology: A Hypothesis

Mutations in the gene encoding for leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are associated with both familial and sporadic Parkinson's disease (PD). LRRK2 encodes a large protein comprised of a GTPase and a kinase domain. All pathogenic variants converge on enhancing LRRK2 kinase substrate phosphorylation, and distinct LRRK2 kinase inhibitors are currently in various stages of clinical trials. Although the precise pathophysiological functions of LRRK2 remain largely unknown, PD-associated mutants have been shown to alter various intracellular vesicular trafficking pathways, especially those related to endolysosomal protein degradation events. In addition, biochemical studies have identified a subset of Rab proteins, small GTPases required for all vesicular trafficking steps, as substrate proteins for the LRRK2 kinase activity in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the impact of such phosphorylation on neurodegenerative mechanisms underlying LRRK2-related PD, especially with respect to deregulated Rab-mediated endolysosomal membrane trafficking and protein degradation events. Surprisingly, a significant proportion of PD patients due to LRRK2 mutations display neuronal cell loss in the substantia nigra pars compacta in the absence of any apparent α-synuclein-containing Lewy body neuropathology. These findings suggest that endolysosomal alterations mediated by pathogenic LRRK2 per se are not sufficient to cause α-synuclein aggregation. Here, we will review current knowledge about the link between pathogenic LRRK2, Rab protein phosphorylation and endolysosomal trafficking alterations, and we will propose a testable working model whereby LRRK2-related PD may present with variable LB pathology.

LRRK2 Is Recruited to Phagosomes and Co-recruits RAB8 and RAB10 in Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Macrophages

The Parkinson's disease-associated gene, LRRK2, is also associated with immune disorders and infectious disease and is expressed in immune subsets. Here, we characterize a platform for interrogating the expression and function of endogenous LRRK2 in authentic human phagocytes using human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived macrophages and microglia. Endogenous LRRK2 is expressed and upregulated by interferon-γ in these cells, including a 187-kDa cleavage product. Using LRRK2 knockout and G2019S isogenic repair lines, we find that LRRK2 is not involved in initial phagocytic uptake of bioparticles but is recruited to LAMP1⁺/RAB9⁺ "maturing" phagosomes, and LRRK2 kinase inhibition enhances its residency at the phagosome. Importantly, LRRK2 is required for RAB8a and RAB10 recruitment to phagosomes, implying that LRRK2 operates at the intersection between phagosome maturation and recycling pathways in these professional phagocytes.

Multiple-Hit Hypothesis in Parkinson's Disease: LRRK2 and Inflammation

The multiple hit hypothesis for Parkinson’s disease (PD) suggests that an interaction between multiple (genetic and/or environmental) risk factors is needed to trigger the pathology. Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2 (LRRK2) is an interesting protein to study in this context and is the focus of this review. More than 15 years of intensive research have identified several cellular pathways in which LRRK2 is involved, yet its exact physiological role or contribution to PD is not completely understood. Pathogenic mutations in LRRK2 are the most common genetic cause of PD but most likely require additional triggers to develop PD, as suggested by the reduced penetrance of the LRRK2 G2019S mutation. LRRK2 expression is high in immune cells such as monocytes, neutrophils, or dendritic cells, compared to neurons or glial cells and evidence for a role of LRRK2 in the immune system is emerging. This has led to the hypothesis that an inflammatory trigger is needed for pathogenic LRRK2 mutations to induce a PD phenotype. In this review, we will discuss the link between LRRK2 and inflammation and how this could play an active role in PD etiology.

The Emerging Functions of LRRK2 and Rab GTPases in the Endolysosomal System

The leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2), the most common causative gene for autosomal-dominant familial Parkinson’s disease, encodes a large protein kinase harboring multiple characteristic domains. LRRK2 phosphorylates a set of Rab GTPases in cells, which is enhanced by the Parkinson-associated LRRK2 mutations. Accumulating evidence suggests that LRRK2 regulates intracellular vesicle trafficking and organelle maintenance including Golgi, endosomes and lysosomes. Furthermore, genetic knockout or inhibition of LRRK2 cause lysosomal abnormalities in rodents and primates, and cells from Parkinson’s patients with LRRK2 mutations also exhibit altered lysosome morphology. Cell biological studies on LRRK2 in a diverse cellular context further strengthen the potential connection between LRRK2 and regulation of the endolysosomal system, part of which is mediated by Rab phosphorylation by LRRK2. We will focus on the latest advances on the role of LRRK2 and Rab in relation to the endolysosomal system, and discuss the possible link to the pathomechanism of Parkinson’s disease.

LRRK2 regulation of immune-pathways and inflammatory disease

Mutations in the leucine-rich-repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene are associated with familial and sporadic cases of Parkinson's disease but are also found in immune-related disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease, tuberculosis and leprosy. LRRK2 is highly expressed in immune cells and has been functionally linked to pathways pertinent to immune cell function, such as cytokine release, autophagy and phagocytosis. Here, we examine the current understanding of the role of LRRK2 kinase activity in pathway regulation in immune cells, drawing upon data from multiple diseases associated with LRRK2 to highlight the pleiotropic effects of LRRK2 in different cell types. We discuss the role of the bona fide LRRK2 substrate, Rab GTPases, in LRRK2 pathway regulation as well as downstream events in the autophagy and inflammatory pathways.

Role of endolysosomes and inter-organellar signaling in brain disease

Endosomes and lysosomes (endolysosomes) are membrane bounded organelles that play a key role in cell survival and cell death. These acidic intracellular organelles are the principal sites for intracellular hydrolytic activity required for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. Endolysosomes are involved in the degradation of plasma membrane components, extracellular macromolecules as well as intracellular macromolecules and cellular fragments. Understanding the physiological significance and pathological relevance of endolysosomes is now complicated by relatively recent findings of physical and functional interactions between endolysosomes with other intracellular organelles including endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, plasma membranes, and peroxisomes. Indeed, evidence clearly indicates that endolysosome dysfunction and inter-organellar signaling occurs in different neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD), HIV-1 associated neurocognitive disease (HAND), Parkinson's disease (PD) as well as various forms of brain cancer such as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). These findings open new areas of cell biology research focusing on understanding the physiological actions and pathophysiological consequences of inter-organellar communication. Here, we will review findings of others and us that endolysosome de-acidification and dysfunction coupled with impaired inter-organellar signaling is involved in the pathogenesis of AD, HAND, PD, and GBM. A more comprehensive appreciation of cell biology and inter-organellar signaling could lead to the development of new drugs to prevent or cure these diseases.

LRRK2 Biology from structure to dysfunction: research progresses, but the themes remain the same

Since the discovery of leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) as a protein that is likely central to the aetiology of Parkinson’s disease, a considerable amount of work has gone into uncovering its basic cellular function. This effort has led to the implication of LRRK2 in a bewildering range of cell biological processes and pathways, and probable roles in a number of seemingly unrelated medical conditions. In this review we summarise current knowledge of the basic biochemistry and cellular function of LRRK2. Topics covered include the identification of phosphorylation substrates of LRRK2 kinase activity, in particular Rab proteins, and advances in understanding the activation of LRRK2 kinase activity via dimerisation and association with membranes, especially via interaction with Rab29. We also discuss biochemical studies that shed light on the complex LRRK2 GTPase activity, evidence of roles for LRRK2 in a range of cell signalling pathways that are likely cell type specific, and studies linking LRRK2 to the cell biology of organelles. The latter includes the involvement of LRRK2 in autophagy, endocytosis, and processes at the trans-Golgi network, the endoplasmic reticulum and also key microtubule-based cellular structures. We further propose a mechanism linking LRRK2 dimerisation, GTPase function and membrane recruitment with LRRK2 kinase activation by Rab29. Together these data paint a picture of a research field that in many ways is moving forward with great momentum, but in other ways has not changed fundamentally. Many key advances have been made, but very often they seem to lead back to the same places.

RAB8, RAB10 and RILPL1 contribute to both LRRK2 kinase-mediated centrosomal cohesion and ciliogenesis deficits

Mutations in the LRRK2 kinase are the most common cause of familial Parkinson's disease, and variants increase risk for the sporadic form of the disease. LRRK2 phosphorylates multiple RAB GTPases including RAB8A and RAB10. Phosphorylated RAB10 is recruited to centrosome-localized RILPL1, which may interfere with ciliogenesis in a disease-relevant context. Our previous studies indicate that the centrosomal accumulation of phosphorylated RAB8A causes centrosomal cohesion deficits in dividing cells, including in peripheral patient-derived cells. Here, we show that both RAB8 and RAB10 contribute to the centrosomal cohesion deficits. Pathogenic LRRK2 causes the centrosomal accumulation not only of phosho-RAB8 but also of phospho-RAB10, and the effects on centrosomal cohesion are dependent on RAB8, RAB10 and RILPL1. Conversely, the pathogenic LRRK2-mediated ciliogenesis defects correlate with the centrosomal accumulation of both phospho-RAB8 and phospho-RAB10. LRRK2-mediated centrosomal cohesion and ciliogenesis alterations are observed in patient-derived peripheral cells, as well as in primary astrocytes from mutant LRRK2 mice, and are reverted upon LRRK2 kinase inhibition. These data suggest that the LRRK2-mediated centrosomal cohesion and ciliogenesis defects are distinct cellular readouts of the same underlying phospho-RAB8/RAB10/RILPL1 nexus and highlight the possibility that either centrosomal cohesion and/or ciliogenesis alterations may serve as cellular biomarkers for LRRK2-related PD.

Membrane association but not identity is required for LRRK2 activation and phosphorylation of Rab GTPases

Parkinson’s disease–associated LRRK2 kinase is activated on the Golgi by Rab29 but phosphorylates Rab10 there and on other compartments. This study shows that phosphorylation is restricted to membrane surfaces but need not take place on the Golgi.

LRRK2 kinase mutations cause familial Parkinson’s disease and increased phosphorylation of a subset of Rab GTPases. Rab29 recruits LRRK2 to the trans-Golgi and activates it there, yet some of LRRK2’s major Rab substrates are not on the Golgi. We sought to characterize the cell biology of LRRK2 activation. Unlike other Rab family members, we show that Rab29 binds nucleotide weakly, is poorly prenylated, and is not bound to GDI in the cytosol; nevertheless, Rab29 only activates LRRK2 when it is membrane bound and GTP bound. Mitochondrially anchored, GTP-bound Rab29 is both a LRRK2 substrate and activator, and it drives accumulation of active LRRK2 and phosphorylated Rab10 on mitochondria. Importantly, mitochondrially anchored LRRK2 is much less capable of phosphorylating plasma membrane–anchored Rab10 than soluble LRRK2. These data support a model in which LRRK2 associates with and dissociates from distinct membrane compartments to phosphorylate Rab substrates; if anchored, LRRK2 can modify misdelivered Rab substrates that then become trapped there because GDI cannot retrieve them.