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Changes in dendritic complexity and spine morphology following BCG immunization in APP/PS1 mice
Qingqing Li, Xiao Wang, Zhao Hua Wang
1Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China.
Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics
|September 16, 2022
Summary
Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy improved brain cell structure in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model. BCG enhanced dendritic complexity and spine maturation, suggesting a protective role against neurodegeneration.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by synaptic dysfunction.
- Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is known to modulate the immune system and enhance synaptic plasticity in healthy rats.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential protective effects of BCG immunization on synaptic function and dendritic morphology in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (APP/PS1 mice).
Main Methods:
- BCG immunization was administered to APP/PS1 mice.
- Dendritic morphology, including complexity, neurite number, length, and spine maturation, was analyzed.
- Levels of key cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-4, TNF-α) and protein expression (p-JAK2, P-STAT3, SYN, PSD-95) were measured.
Main Results:
- BCG immunization significantly increased dendritic complexity, primary neurites, dendritic length, and spine maturation in the hippocampus.
- BCG treatment led to increased levels of IFN-γ and IL-4, and decreased TNF-α.
- Expression of p-JAK2, P-STAT3, SYN, and PSD-95 was elevated following BCG immunization.
Conclusions:
- BCG immunization mitigates hippocampal dendritic spine pathology in an AD mouse model, particularly after repeated administration.
- The neuroprotective effects of BCG may involve enhanced dendritic arborization, spine morphology, increased SYN and PSD-95 expression, and modulation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway via IFN-γ or IL-4.
