In the ongoing search for prevention and a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), a study was conducted at Colorado’s Anschutz Medical Campus. The researchers found that memory and learning are improved by the overexpression of a gene associated with cell division.
According to a recent article in SciTechDaily, the indications are that neurons’ function and structure could prevent cognitive decline in mice as well as in humans. In other words, AD could possibly be prevented in spite of the amyloid beta primarily found in AD patients’ brains.
James D. Watson, who is credited with the discovery of the double-helix structure of DNA, notes that many cancers appear to arise through overexpression of key cellular regulatory genes.
Comparing studies, previous studies have concentrated on plaques but in the instant case, the scientists circumvented the plaques. Findings from the study were published recently in the journal Science.
Overexpression of kinesin-5 (KIF11)
Huntington Potter, a senior author of the study, said that overexpression of KIF11 in mice had no effect on amyloid levels in their brains. The mice were cognitively normal in spite of plaques. Dr. Potter further stated that this is the best indication that cognition can be maintained in the presence of plaques.
The KIF11 gene is related to the maintenance and development of the brain, lymphatic system, and eyes. It is a motor protein involved in cell division (mitosis). KIF11 plays a role in the way neurons develop dendrites. Dendrites and dendritic spines are major factors in memory, learning, and communication among neurons. They are an extension of nerve cells and the impulses they receive from other cells are sent throughout the cell body.
But amyloid beta can block KIF11 and cause damage to the structures. The study showed that overexpressing KIF11 in AD mice improved cognitive test performance when comparing AD mice who had normal KIF11 levels.
Analyzing Genetic Data
The next step for the team was to find out if forms of KIF11 that are naturally occurring brought about improved cognitive performance. Results indicated that KIF11 at higher levels improved older adults’ cognitive performance.
Author Dr. Heidi Chial, assistant professor at Colorado University, said that this information motivates researchers to start testing drugs that will create the same effect on humans.
Professor Chial referred to the number of failed approaches attempted over the years focusing on the reduction of amyloid beta production. The professor stated that the study provided clear evidence that there is a need to improve AD therapeutics.
