Mutations in PD-associated genes, such as α-synuclein (SNCA), leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2), PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1), and Parkin, directly impact mitochondrial quality control: PINK1 and Parkin mutations disrupt mitophagy, the selective degradation of damaged mitochondria; SNCA oligomers accumulate in mitochondria, impairing membrane integrity; and LRRK2 dysregulation affects mitochondrial dynamics, leading to fragmented and dysfunctional organelles.9, 10, 11, 12. Here, SNCA is linked to Parkinson disease.