Cansu SARIKAYA, Sebla ÇALIŞKAN, Özkan ÖZDEMİR, Mete İŞERİ, Pervin İŞERİ
Nöropsikiyatri Arşivi - 2026;63(1):232-234
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by the misfolding of alpha-synuclein (alpha-synuclein) proteins. Despite treatment, misdiagnosis rates can reach up to 50% within the first five years, highlighting the need for reliable biomarkers. However, the presence and role of alpha-synuclein in lymphatic tissues, such as the tonsils, have not been adequately investigated. The tonsils are accessible lymphatic organs that may serve as potential sites for alpha-synuclein accumulation due to their rich innervation and immune activity. Therefore, this study aims to investigate and compare alpha-synuclein levels in the tonsillar tissues of patients with Parkinson's disease and healthy controls. By evaluating the tonsils as a potential site of alpha-synuclein deposition, this study aims to explore their role as a possible biomarker.
