LRRK2 Biochemical Studies (Invitrogen/Nichols Collaboration)

Objective/Rationale: 
Mutations in the gene for LRRK2 are one of the most common genetic causes of PD. However, little is known about the biological function of LRRK2 in cells or how LRRK2 biological activity is regulated. Such information is critical in order to develop optimal therapeutics targeting LRRK2.

Project Description: 
MJFF is working with Drs. Jeremy Nichols (The Parkinson’s Institute, CA) and Life Technologies Corporation on a collaborative project to:

1. Identify other proteins (kinases) that chemically modify LRRK2 and thus its biological function.
2. How an internal portion of the LRRK2 protein (the ‘carboxy terminus’) regulates the biological activity of LRRK2.

Relevance to Diagnosis/Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease:  
By understanding how LRRK2 biological activity is regulated by other proteins or internally by regions of the LRRK2 protein itself, drug makers will have a clearer understanding of how to target mutated forms of the LRRK2 protein in people with PD.

Anticipated Outcome: 
If successful, the project will identify one or more proteins and/or internal regions of the LRRK2 protein that regulate LRRK2 activity and that could be additional targets for therapeutic development