Metallothionein functional aspects in the central nervous system

Abstract

The metallothionein (MT- I, MT- II, MT-III and MT -IV) form a superfamily of proteins, cysteine-rich metal capable of binding to its structure. In the nervous system the MT I and II has been located along the spinal cord and brain, mostly in astrocytes, while MT- III has only been localized in the neurons. Its primary function has been frequently be responsible for maintaining intracellular zinc homeostasis, detoxification of heavy metals, is a stress-related protein capable of protecting the free radicals generated by oxidative stress. The involvement of this protein in the process of inflammation generated by oxidative stress has also been reported, on the other hand, the MT- III has been involved in events and neuromodulation in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer. This review presents evidence about the cellular mechanisms of MT and their role in normal physiological and pathological processes in the central nervous system.