The article describes the structure of the PINK1 protein and how it binds to mitochondria to stimulate the degradation of damaged mitochondria (mitophagy). It is a very interesting article and I think it is well done. From a basic research point of view it is important because it describes in detail a molecular process that was not well known. However, I think that its medical impact, although relevant, should not be considered spectacular.

It is true that there are cases of genetic Parkinsonism caused by mutations in PINK1, but these cases represent a relatively small number of the total cases. The majority (over 90%) of Parkinson's cases (sporadic and genetic) are not (in principle) related to PINK1. Therefore, I believe that the hopes for a new pharmacology to treat Parkinson's disease indicated in the press release, although potentially possible, seem to me to be somewhat exaggerated.