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Updated: Mar 19, 2026

ROS Live Cell Imaging During Neuronal Development
Published on: February 9, 2021
RAGE Expression and ROS Generation in Neurons: Differentiation versus Damage
S Piras1, A L Furfaro2, C Domenicotti1
1Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Via L.B. Alberti 2, 16132 Genoa, Italy.
Abstract:
RAGE is a multiligand receptor able to bind advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), amphoterin, calgranulins, and amyloid-beta peptides, identified in many tissues and cells, including neurons. RAGE stimulation induces the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) mainly through the activity of NADPH oxidases. In neuronal cells, RAGE-induced ROS generation is able to favor cell survival and differentiation or to induce death through the imbalance of redox state. The dual nature of RAGE signaling in neurons depends not only on the intensity of RAGE activation but also on the ability of RAGE-bearing cells to adapt to ROS generation. In this review we highlight these aspects of RAGE signaling regulation in neuronal cells.
Insights
Receptor for Advanced Glycation End-products (RAGE) signaling in neurons has a dual role, promoting survival or death via reactive oxygen species (ROS). Its regulation depends on RAGE activation intensity and neuronal cell adaptation to ROS.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Receptor for Advanced Glycation End-products (RAGE) is a multiligand receptor found in neurons.
- RAGE binds ligands such as advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) and amyloid-beta peptides.
- RAGE activation triggers reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation via NADPH oxidases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the dual role of RAGE signaling in neuronal cells.
- To highlight the regulation of RAGE signaling in response to ROS.
- To explore how RAGE activation intensity and cellular adaptation influence neuronal fate.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of RAGE signaling pathways in neurons.
- Analysis of RAGE-mediated ROS generation mechanisms.
- Examination of factors influencing neuronal survival and death under RAGE stimulation.
Main Results:
- RAGE activation can lead to either neuronal survival/differentiation or cell death.
- The outcome of RAGE signaling is dependent on the intensity of receptor activation.
- Neuronal cell's capacity to adapt to ROS generation is critical in determining cell fate.
Conclusions:
- RAGE signaling in neurons exhibits a context-dependent dual nature.
- Regulation of RAGE-induced ROS is key to understanding neuronal responses.
- Cellular adaptation mechanisms play a significant role in modulating RAGE's impact on neuronal health.
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