Synaptosomal Preparation and Its Application in Preclinical Studies

Here we reviewed both established and emerging approaches to study the synaptic function. After an overview on the synaptic morphology and function, we focused our attention on the use of synaptosomal preparation to investigate the presynaptic compartment, both in animal and human models with the final aim of better clarifying the synaptic dysfunction associated with neurological disorders. Additionally, we highlighted the recent application of synaptosomes for proteomic experiments as a valuable tool to examine the altered presynaptic machinery involved in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We finally discussed the ways in which different synaptosomal preparations are revolutionizing our ability to investigate the complex mechanisms underlying the synaptic network.