PINK1

PINK1 (PTEN-induced kinase 1) is a protein that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy cells, especially in the brain. It acts as a sensor for damaged mitochondria—the cell’s energy producers—and helps initiate their cleanup process, called mitophagy. When mitochondria are damaged, PINK1 accumulates on their surface, signaling for their removal to prevent cellular harm. Mutations in the PINK1 gene can impair this process, leading to the buildup of damaged mitochondria, which is associated with neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s disease. In essence, PINK1 helps keep cells clean and functioning properly by managing mitochondrial health.