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Transthyretin: more than meets the eye
Carolina Estima Fleming1, Ana Filipa Nunes, Mónica Mendes Sousa
1Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular-IBMC, Nerve Regeneration Group, Rua Campo Alegre 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal.
Progress in Neurobiology
|August 12, 2009
Summary
Transthyretin (TTR) is vital for brain health, transporting substances and aiding nerve regeneration. Its roles in neurobiology and various neuropathologies like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's warrant further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Neurobiology
- Protein Function
- Neuropathology
Background:
- Transthyretin (TTR) primarily functions as a transporter for thyroxine and retinol.
- Mutated TTR causes familial amyloid polyneuropathy due to amyloid fibril deposition.
- Emerging evidence highlights TTR's roles in central and peripheral nervous system physiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review TTR's known and potential functions in neurobiology.
- To integrate current knowledge on TTR's association with various neuropathologies.
- To emphasize the undervalued significance of TTR in neuroscience research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and critical analysis of existing studies.
- Synthesis of data on TTR's physiological roles.
- Examination of TTR's involvement in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.
Main Results:
- TTR participates in behavior, cognitive maintenance, neuropeptide processing, and nerve regeneration.
- TTR may offer neuroprotection against amyloid beta fibril formation in Alzheimer's disease.
- TTR is implicated in Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and depression.
Conclusions:
- TTR's relevance in neurobiology is currently underestimated.
- Further research into TTR's diverse functions and pathological associations is essential.
- Understanding TTR's multifaceted roles can advance neurobiological and neuropathological insights.
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