TREM2 in neurodegeneration and diseases
Altaf A Abdulkhaliq1, Glowi Alasiri2, Bonglee Kim3
1Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) is a cell surface transmembrane receptor from the TREM receptor family, predominantly expressed on the microglia in the central nervous system (CNS). TREM2-initiated signaling plays a crucial role in regulating neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), through the activation of downstream signaling pathways and transcriptional regulation of relevant genes. In this review, we aim to provide a concise review of the role and mechanistic implications of TREM2 in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation, with a specific focus on AD and PD. We will discuss the most recent preclinical studies to highlight current advancements in the field. This review is intended to support both basic researchers and clinicians by enhancing their understanding of microglial function in the pathophysiology of AD and PD, as well as its role in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Ultimately, we hope this contribution will pave the way for new discoveries and the development of potential therapeutic interventions.
Insights
Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) is vital for brain health, regulating neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Understanding TREM2 function offers new therapeutic avenues.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) is a key microglial receptor in the central nervous system.
- TREM2 signaling influences neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration, critical processes in neurological disorders.
- Its role is particularly significant in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role and mechanistic implications of TREM2 in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation.
- To focus specifically on the involvement of TREM2 in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
- To highlight recent preclinical advancements and support researchers and clinicians.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of preclinical studies on TREM2.
- Analysis of TREM2's downstream signaling pathways.
- Examination of TREM2's transcriptional regulation of genes involved in neurodegeneration.
Main Results:
- TREM2 signaling is a critical regulator of microglial function in the CNS.
- Dysregulation of TREM2 is implicated in the pathophysiology of AD and PD.
- Recent preclinical studies reveal novel insights into TREM2's mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- TREM2 plays a pivotal role in microglial responses to neurodegenerative conditions.
- Targeting TREM2 pathways holds potential for developing novel therapeutic strategies for AD and PD.
- Further research into TREM2 function is essential for advancing neurodegenerative disease treatment.
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