Parkinson's disease-associated ATP13A2/PARK9 functions as a lysosomal H+,K+-ATPase

Mutations in the human ATP13A2, a lysosomal ATPase, is associated with pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. Here, the authors show that ATP13A2 functions as H + /K + transporting protein, preventing lysosomal alkalinization and alpha-synuclein accumulation. Mutations in the human ATP13A2 (PARK9), a lysosomal ATPase, cause Kufor-Rakeb Syndrome, an early-onset form of Parkinson's disease (PD). Here, we demonstrate that ATP13A2 functions as a lysosomal H+,K+-ATPase. The K+-dependent ATPase activity and the lysosomal K+-transport activity of ATP13A2 are inhibited by an inhibitor of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase, thapsigargin, and K+-competitive inhibitors of gastric H+,K+-ATPase, such as vonoprazan and SCH28080. Interestingly, these H+,K+-ATPase inhibitors cause lysosomal alkalinization and alpha-synuclein accumulation, which are pathological hallmarks of PD. Furthermore, PD-associated mutants of ATP13A2 show abnormal expression and function. Our results suggest that the H+/K+-transporting function of ATP13A2 contributes to acidification and alpha-synuclein degradation in lysosomes.

Automated summary

Mutations in the human ATP13A2 gene are associated with the development of Parkinson's disease. This study reveals that ATP13A2 acts as a H+/K+ transporting protein in lysosomes, which prevents alkalization of lysosomes and accumulation of alpha-synuclein.