Alpha-sarcoglycan is a protein that plays a crucial role in muscle function. It is part of a group of proteins known as the sarcoglycan complex, which helps maintain the structural integrity of muscle fibers. This protein is primarily found in skeletal and cardiac muscles, where it contributes to the stability of the cell membrane during muscle contraction. Mutations in the gene that encodes alpha-sarcoglycan can lead to various forms of muscular dystrophy, particularly limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 2D. This condition results in progressive muscle weakness and degeneration, highlighting the importance of alpha-sarcoglycan in maintaining healthy muscle tissue.