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[Neuropeptides in Alzheimer's disease].
C Jiménez-Corral1, J C Morán-Sánchez, H Alonso-Navarro
1Sección de Neurología, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital General de Soria, Soria, Spain. cjimenez@hsor.sacyl.es
Revista De Neurologia
|April 1, 2006
Summary
Neuropeptides, including substance P and somatostatin, show altered levels in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brains. Research reviews findings on various neurotransmitters and their potential link to AD pathology.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
Context:
- Approximately 200 known peptides exist in the body, with 80 functioning as neurotransmitters.
- Around 20 peptides have been implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology.
Purpose:
- To review salient studies on neuropeptides and their association with Alzheimer's disease.
- To analyze findings on neurotransmitters like corticotropin-releasing hormone, somatostatin, vasopressin, and others in relation to AD.
Summary:
- Studies indicate reduced levels of substance P in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, basal ganglia, and cerebrospinal fluid.
- Diminished somatostatin levels are observed in similar brain regions, excluding the basal ganglia.
- Arginine vasopressin levels are generally reduced, with exceptions in the temporal lobe, while dynorphin and leucine enkephalin show increased levels.
Impact:
- Highlights complex and sometimes contradictory findings regarding neuropeptide roles in AD.
- Identifies specific neuropeptides with altered concentrations in AD, suggesting potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets.