Lewy Body Dementia Promotion by Air Pollutants

Science, 2025

This groundbreaking study shows how long-term exposure to fine particulate air pollution (PM₂.₅) increases the risk of Lewy body dementia in humans. Using both population data and mouse models, the team demonstrates that pollutants can trigger toxic α-synuclein strains that mimic human disease.

Blocking the Self-Destruct Program of Dopamine Neurons

Movement Disorders, 2024

This translational study highlights a new therapeutic target for Parkinson’s disease: inhibiting the nuclease activity of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). By blocking this “executioner” enzyme, the authors show protection of dopamine neurons from self-destruction.

Parthanatos: Mechanisms, Modulation, and Therapeutic Prospects

Review, 2024

A comprehensive review of parthanatos, a unique form of programmed cell death discovered by the Dawson Lab. This article synthesizes two decades of research, detailing molecular mechanisms and exploring how targeting this pathway may lead to treatments for stroke and neurodegeneration.

A Nuclease that Mediates PARP-1–Induced Cell Death

Science, 2016

This landmark paper identifies MIF as the nuclease that fragments DNA during parthanatos. It provides a missing piece of the puzzle and opens the door to therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing parthanatos-driven neuronal loss.

Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase-1 Triggers AIF-Mediated Neuronal Death

Science, 2002

A foundational discovery demonstrating that overactivation of PARP-1 leads to caspase-independent neuronal death via apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF). This work established the basis for defining parthanatos as a distinct cell death program.