Heat shock proteins, such as HSP40, HSP60, HSP70 and HSP90, are known as molecular chaperones because they play a role in helping proteins function properly when cells are under stress. The heat shock response protects cells from the accumulation of misfolded proteins, aggregated proteins, and dysfunctional lysosomes (the cell’s recycling system), which could otherwise lead to toxicity and disease.

Our work is focused on making use of the cell-protective properties of HSP70 to create new therapies for rare neurodegenerative diseases.