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A cDNA for a human microtubule associated protein 2 epitope in the Alzheimer neurofibrillary tangle
Abstract:
Microtubule associated protein 2 (MAP2) forms a long outward projection from the microtubule wall and is localized to the microtubule population of neuronal cell bodies and dendrites. In Alzheimer's disease, MAP2 epitopes are shared with the neurofibrillary tangle (NFT). Direct information about the molecular composition of the NFT can be obtained by cloning the genes for protein epitopes shared with NFT. Using two monoclonal antibodies to distinct MAP2 epitopes, one of which recognizes NFT, we screened a complex human fetal brain cDNA expression library constructed in lambda gt11. A 2.4 kilobase (kb) cDNA reacted with both antibodies independently. Northern blot analysis showed hybridization of the clone to a 9 kb RNA specific not only to brain but also to neurons. The DNA sequence of the cDNA will include the information for the MAP2 epitope contained in NFT.
Insights
Researchers identified a gene fragment encoding a Microtubule Associated Protein 2 (MAP2) epitope shared with Alzheimer's disease neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). This finding aids in understanding NFT molecular composition.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Microtubule Associated Protein 2 (MAP2) is crucial for neuronal structure, localized in cell bodies and dendrites.
- Alzheimer's disease features neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) that share epitopes with MAP2.
- Understanding NFT composition is key to Alzheimer's research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify genes encoding protein epitopes shared between MAP2 and NFTs.
- To clone and characterize cDNA fragments that recognize these shared epitopes.
Main Methods:
- Screening a human fetal brain cDNA expression library using monoclonal antibodies against distinct MAP2 epitopes.
- Utilizing antibodies, one of which recognizes NFTs, to identify reactive cDNA clones.
- Performing Northern blot analysis to confirm RNA expression patterns.
Main Results:
- A 2.4 kilobase (kb) cDNA clone was isolated that reacted with both antibodies independently.
- Northern blot analysis revealed hybridization to a 9 kb RNA specific to brain and neuronal tissue.
- The isolated cDNA contains the genetic information for the MAP2 epitope found in NFTs.
Conclusions:
- The identified cDNA clone provides insight into the molecular composition of neurofibrillary tangles.
- This research facilitates further investigation into the role of MAP2 in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis.
- The findings offer a molecular tool for studying NFT formation and progression.