PARK7 (Parkinsonism associated deglycase)

PARK7 (also called DJ-1 or Parkinsonism associated deglycase) is a pleiotropic protein belonging to the peptidase C56 family. It acts as positive regulator of androgen receptor-dependent transcription, redox-sensitive chaperone, sensor for oxidative stress, and apparently protects neurons against oxidative stress and cell death. Dysfunctions in PARK7 are related to autosomal recessive early-onset Parkinson disease 7 and cancer forms. Here, we review some major data on PARK7, concerning the genetic structure, the transcription regulation, the encoded protein and functions, and its implication in human diseases.