Giuseppe Caruso, Simona F. Spampinato, Vincenzo Cardaci, Filippo Caraci, Maria A. Sortino* and Sara Merlo* Pages 4771 - 4781 ( 11 )
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a slow-developing neurodegenerative disorder in which the main pathogenic role has been assigned to β-amyloid protein (Aβ) that accumulates in extracellular plaques. The mechanism of action of Aβ has been deeply analyzed and several membrane structures have been identified as potential mediators of its effect. The ability of Aβ to modify neuronal activity, receptor expression, signaling pathways, mitochondrial function, and involvement of glial cells have been analyzed. In addition, extensive literature deals with the involvement of oxidative stress in Aβ effects. Herein we focus more specifically on the reciprocal regulation of Aβ, that causes oxidative stress, that favors Aβ aggregation and toxicity and negatively affects the peptide clearance. Analysis of this strict interaction may offer novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Both common and new molecules endowed with antioxidant properties deserve attention in this regard.
Alzheimer’s disease, reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen species, neurodegeneration, antioxidants, carnosine.
Oasi Research Institute - IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Scuola Superiore di Catania, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Oasi Research Institute - IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania