Chapters authored
Presenilins Interactome in Alzheimer’s Disease and Pathological Ageing
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia characterized by massive neuronal loss. Pathological hallmarks of the disease are overproduction of β-amyloid (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylation of tau protein accumulated into senile plaques (SPs) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), respectively. SPs with cortical tau pathology are also hallmark of pathological ageing (PA). Recently, an extensive overlap has been shown between Aβ levels and profiles in PA and AD brains, suggesting that PA could be a prodromal AD phase. Presenilins are major components of the γ-secretase complex involved in Aβ production. Furthermore, presenilins interact with players of numerous signalling pathways important in the PA and AD. Integration of various modern research approaches would reinforce the role of presenilins signalling network in brain pathology. These approaches include high-throughput (epi)genetic and transcriptomic analyses, large-scale microscopic imaging studies, immunoaffinity purification or mass spectrometry. Comprehensive integration of these methods is necessary to update the definition of the role of presenilins in AD and PA. Hereby, we summarize the available data on presenilins’ functions and interactions. We believe that the systematization of the existing knowledge will stimulate further research and will help reveal the molecular nooks and crannies in Alzheimer’s disease and in pathological ageing.
Part of the book: Senescence