What type of inclusion is identified in nerve cells in Parkinson's disease?

In Parkinson's disease, the presence of Lewy bodies is a hallmark feature. Lewy bodies are intracellular inclusions found predominantly in the neurons of individuals affected by this neurodegenerative disorder. They are composed mainly of alpha-synuclein, a protein that aggregates and disrupts normal cellular function.

The accumulation of Lewy bodies is significant because they are associated with the characteristic symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as bradykinesia, rigidity, and tremors. They can be identified histologically and play a crucial role in the pathology of the disease, as their formation and presence in brain regions such as the substantia nigra correlate with neuronal loss and the resultant clinical manifestations.

Understanding the pathology of Lewy bodies helps deepen our knowledge of Parkinson’s disease and its progression, providing insight into potential therapeutic targets and the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration.