γ-Secretase complex-interacting intrinsic regulators for Aβ generation

Masaki Nishimura

Molecular Neuroscience Research Center, Shiga University of Medical Science

Reduction in the amyloid-β (Aβ) level in brain is the principal therapeutic goal for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Neuronal Aβ secretion has been revealed to be mostly associated with synaptic activity. In addition, recent reports have described that several proteins influence Aβ generation by modulating γ-secretase cleavage of amyloid precursor protein. These proteins alter the specific activity, substrate selectivity and assembly or subcellular localization of γ-secretase complexes. To know the mechanism underlying the intrinsic regulation of Aβ generation in brains is essential for the development of disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer's disease.

Address correspondence to Dr. Masaki Nishimura, Molecular Neuroscience Research Center, Shiga University of Medical Science (Seta-Tsukinowacho, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192)