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The innate immune response in tauopathies
Alexis M Johnson1,2,3, John R Lukens1,2,3
1Center for Brain Immunology and Glia (BIG), Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
European Journal of Immunology
|March 18, 2023
Summary
Innate immune pathways drive tauopathies like Alzheimer's disease. This review highlights how the immune system contributes to the development and progression of these neurodegenerative disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Tauopathies are neurodegenerative diseases characterized by pathogenic tau aggregates.
- These aggregates lead to neuronal dysfunction and cognitive decline.
- The immune system, particularly innate immunity, is increasingly recognized for its role in tauopathy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature implicating innate immune pathways in tauopathy.
- To summarize the evidence linking innate immunity to tau pathology.
- To explore the role of innate immune genes in disease risk and progression.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on tauopathies and the immune system.
- Analysis of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and clinical evidence.
- Examination of experimental data on innate immune pathways in tau pathology.
Main Results:
- Innate immune genes harbor tauopathy risk alleles.
- Innate immune pathways are upregulated in tauopathies.
- The innate immune system regulates tau kinases and tau aggregate formation.
Conclusions:
- Innate immune pathways are significant drivers of tauopathy.
- Targeting innate immunity may offer therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.
- Further research into neuroinflammation is crucial for understanding and treating tauopathies.
