Computational 3D Models of Fe^2+/3+-Aβ_1-42 Complexes Associated with Alzheimer's Disease

The interaction between iron and amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptides has received significant attention in Alzheimer's disease (AD) research due to its potential implications in developing this pathology. However, the coordination preferences of iron and Aβ_1-42 have not been thoroughly investigated or remain unknown. This study employs a computational protocol that combines homology modeling techniques with quantum mechanics (DTF-xTB) calculations to build and evaluate several 3D models of Fe^2+/3+-Aβ_1-42. Our results reveal well-defined complexes for both the metal and peptide moieties, and we discuss the molecular interactions stabilizing these complexes by elucidating the coordinating environments and binding preferences. These proposed models offer valuable insights into the role of iron in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology.