Aggregation of alpha-synuclein studied by scanning force microscopy

Bart van Rooijen (BPE group)

Background

Alpha-synuclein is a small protein abundant in the human brain that can form large insoluble aggregates. These aggregates are associated with Parkinson’s disease, a common neurodegenerative disorder.

Objective

By studying the formation of these aggregates with atomic force microscopy (AFM), I hope to contribute to the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of this disease. New technical developments in the area of AFM within this project are considered (temperature control, fluid control, higher scan speeds), but will be designed if there is a need for this, through biological experimental questions.