Role of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) in progression of neurodegenerative diseases and cancer

Progression of pathology in neurodegenerative diseases is mediated by the productive spreading of prion-like protein aggregates from a “donor cell” that is the source of misfolded aggregates, to an “acceptor cell” in which misfolding is propagated by conversion of the normal protein. Although the proteins involved in the various diseases are unrelated, common pathways appear to be utilized for their intercellular propagation and spreading. I will summarize our recent evidence about the mechanisms involved in the intercellular trafficking of protein aggregates involved in prion, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. In particular on the common roles that Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) and lysosomes play in the formation and spreading of prion-like assemblies. In addition I will summarize our recent findings on the role of TNTs in Glioblastoma using patient derived stem cells and tumor organoids.

Lien de visioconférence a demander à secretariat@crc.jussieu.fr