Risk genes in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) affect integrity and function of microtubules

) are not obviously directly targeting microtubules. Mutations of the risk genes interfere with microtubular function and/or structure as they relate to axon formation/integrity, axon transport, intracellular organelle transport and communication, and cellular, microtubule - guided waste management. Microtubules may be thought of as a conveyor belt for the distribution of nutrients and waste management. Taken together these alterations include an increased risk of tau precipitation (MAPT) and are molecular drivers of neuronal degeneration in PSP. Although microtubular dysfunction has long been documented in PSP mainly based on the findings related to MAPT, this is the first study of the effect of risk genes in PSP. We demonstrate that most of these genes (13/15) also affect microtubular structure and function. These genes/proteins may also be biased towards neurodegeneration in motor neurons.