  Parkin: a multipurpose neuroprotective agent?  An autosomal
recessive juvenile-onset form of Parkinson's disease (AR-JP) is
caused by loss-of-function mutations of the parkin gene, which
encodes a ubiquitin-protein ligase. Three recent reports
demonstrate that parkin can protect neurons from diverse
cellular insults, including alpha-synuclein toxicity,
proteasomal dysfunction, Pael-R accumulation, and kainate-
induced excitotoxicity. These findings suggest a central role
for parkin in maintaining dopaminergic neuronal integrity and
strengthen the link between AR-JP and the more common sporadic
form of Parkinson's disease.[1]     1. Parkin: a multipurpose
neuroprotective agent? Feany, M.B., Pallanck, L.J. Neuron (2003)
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