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The role of complement in Alzheimer's disease pathology
M R Emmerling1, M D Watson, C A Raby
1Neuroscience Therapeutics, Parke-Davis Pharmaceutical Research Division, Warner-Lambert Company, Ann Arbor, MI 48106, USA. mark.emmerling@wl.com
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta
|July 19, 2000
Summary
Complement proteins in Alzheimer
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Complement proteins are found in amyloid plaques and cerebral vascular amyloid in Alzheimer's disease brains.
- Complement activation occurs early in amyloid deposition, coinciding with clinical dementia symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the origins of complement in the brain.
- To examine the role of beta-amyloid peptide (Abeta) in complement activation in Alzheimer's disease (AD).
- To discuss therapeutic strategies targeting Abeta-mediated complement activation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of complement system and Alzheimer's disease.
- Analysis of the role of Abeta in complement activation.
- Discussion of potential pharmacological interventions.
Main Results:
- Complement proteins are early markers and active participants in Alzheimer's neuropathology.
- Abeta triggers complement activation, potentially initiating chronic neuroinflammation.
- Therapeutic inhibition of Abeta-mediated complement activation is a potential strategy for AD.
Conclusions:
- The complement system is critically involved in Alzheimer's pathogenesis.
- Targeting Abeta-complement interactions offers a promising therapeutic avenue for Alzheimer's disease.
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