Post translational changes to α-synuclein control iron and dopamine trafficking : a concept for neuron vulnerability in Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder, the aetiology of which remains elusive. The primary clinical feature of progressively impaired motor control is caused by a loss of midbrain substantia nigra dopamine neurons that have a high α-synuclein (α-syn) and iron content. α-Syn is a neuronal protein that is highly modified post-translationally and central to the Lewy body neuropathology of the disease. This review provides an overview of findings on the role post translational modifications to α-syn have in membrane binding and intracellular vesicle trafficking. Furthermore, we propose a concept in which acetylation and phosphorylation of α-syn modulate endocytic import of iron and vesicle transport of dopamine during normal physiology. Disregulated phosphorylation and oxidation of α-syn mediate iron and dopamine dependent oxidative stress through impaired cellular location and increase propensity for α-syn aggregation. The proposition highlights a connection between α-syn, iron and dopamine, three pathological components associated with disease progression in sporadic Parkinson's disease

Towards a knowledge conversion model enabling programme design in higher education for shaping industry-ready graduates

The increase in the requirement for competent and skilled Information Systems graduates has prompted higher education institutions to adapt learning strategies. One way of achieving this is through the application of knowledge conversion processes, transforming data to capability. Knowledge conversion processes can be utilised to optimise learning in higher education institutions. The purpose of this paper is to propose a knowledge conversion model grounded in educational theory and organisational theory within a real-world context. The model was applied to an Information Systems undergraduate programme at a major higher education institution in South Africa. It was established that the Information Systems programme conformed well with the principles of knowledge conversion as it enabled industry-ready Information Systems graduates. Furthermore, the knowledge conversion model can be utilised as a blueprint for programme design as well as identifying potential gaps in existing programmes.http://www.springer.comseries/7899hj2020Informatic