Retromer Stabilization Improves Cognitive Function and Synaptic Plasticity in a Mouse Model of Down Syndrome

Retromer complex proteins are decreased in postmortem brain tissues from Down syndrome subjects and inversely correlate with the Alzheimer's disease-like neuropathology. However, whether targeting in vivo the retromer system affects cognitive deficits and synaptic function in Down syndrome remains unknown.

The aim of the current study was to examine the effects of pharmacological retromer stabilization on cognitive and synaptic functions in a mouse model of Down syndrome.

Ts65dn mice were administered the pharmacological chaperone, TPT-172, or vehicle from 4 to 9 months of age and then assessed for changes in cognitive function. To assess the effects of TPT-172 on synaptic plasticity, hippocampal slices from Ts65dn mice were incubated in TPT-172 and used for field potential recordings.

Chronic TPT-172 treatment improved performance in cognitive function tests, its incubation with hippocampal slices ameliorated synaptic function response.

Pharmacological stabilization of the retromer complex improves synaptic plasticity and memory in a mouse model of Down syndrome. These results support the therapeutic potential of pharmacological retromer stabilization for individual with Down syndrome.