Chromogranin A in the early steps of the neurosecretory pathway

International audienceChromogranin A (CgA) is a soluble glycoprotein stored with hormones andneuropeptides in secretory granules (SG) of most (neuro)endocrine cells andneurons. Since its discovery in 1967, many studies have reported its structuralcharacteristics, biological roles, and mechanisms of action. Indeed, CgA is botha precursor of various biologically active peptides and a granulogenic proteinregulating the storage and secretion of hormones and neuropeptides. Thisreview emphasizes the findings and theoretical concepts around the CgAlinkedmolecular machinery controlling hormone/neuropeptide aggregationand the interaction of CgA-hormone/neuropeptide aggregates with the trans-Golgi membrane to allow hormone/neuropeptide targeting and SG biogenesis.We will also discuss the intriguing alteration of CgA expression and secretionin various neurological disorders, which could provide insights to elucidate themolecular mechanisms underlying these pathophysiological conditions