Complex Processes Underlying the Dynamic Changes of D-serine Levels in AD Brains
Xiance Ni1, Hisashi Mori1,2
1Graduate School of Innovative Life Science, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.
Current Alzheimer Research
|March 29, 2022
Summary
D-serine, a key molecule in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain function, plays a controversial role in disease progression. Further research into D-serine metabolism and modulation may offer new therapeutic avenues for AD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder marked by amyloid plaques and cognitive decline.
- D-serine, an endogenous co-agonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs), is implicated in AD pathogenesis.
- The precise role and modulation of D-serine in AD progression are not fully understood.
Approach:
- A literature review was conducted using PubMed, focusing on D-serine/serine racemase (SR) and AD.
- Included studies examined NMDAR dysfunction, excitotoxicity, D-serine dynamics, and inflammation in AD.
- The review synthesizes current evidence on D-serine's involvement in AD pathology.
Key Points:
- Beta-amyloid (Aβ) oligomers contribute to NMDAR dysregulation, synaptic dysfunction, and neuronal damage in AD.
- D-serine is involved in NMDAR-mediated excitotoxicity.
- D-serine and SR are implicated in AD-related inflammatory processes.
Conclusions:
- Modulating D-serine levels or SR expression may alleviate neurotoxicity in AD.
- Dynamic changes in D-serine levels during AD progression are likely complex.
- This review highlights novel research directions for D-serine in AD.
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