HspB5/αB-Crystallin: Properties and Current Progress in Neuropathy

HspB5/αB-crystallin (αBC), one of the most representative member of mammalian small heat shock protein family (sHsp), shares the common features with other nine members HspB1-B4 and HspB6-10. Meanwhile, it has a strong antiapoptic effect; its interaction with cytoskeleton participates in maintaining cell structure and plays an important role in cytoprotection. Recent studies reveal that HspB5 has a strong relationship with neurological diseases acting as a protective molecular chaperone or in certain conditions, a pathogenic factor. This review gives a brief introduction on properties of HspB5, its current progress in neurological diseases and potential therapeutic intervention in demyelinating disease, neurodegenerative disease, myopathy and cerebrovascular disease.