Inhibition of Aβ(40) peptide aggregation by Milk-derived Amyloid-like Protein Aggregates (MAPA)

Recent studies have identified Aβ peptides in human gut epithelial cells, along with several amyloid-forming proteins and peptides in the gut lumen. These findings suggest that Aβ or other amyloid-like molecules originating from the gut may contribute to the involvement of the gastrointestinal system in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. Modulating the aggregation behaviour of Aβ and other amyloid forming peptides/proteins present in the gut may represent novel strategy to mitigate AD pathology. This study explores the use of Milk-derived Amyloid-like Protein Aggregates (MAPA) to inhibit Aβ(40) aggregation in vitro. MAPA's inhibitory effects were assessed using amyloid dye-binding assays (Thioflavin T, Congo Red, and ANS) and transmission electron microscopy. Toxicity assays showed that the MAPA significantly reduced Aβ(40)-induced neuronal death. Fluorescence quenching suggest MAPA physically interacts with Aβ(40) to prevent its aggregation. By blocking Aβ aggregation and reducing its neurotoxicity, MAPA presents a promising organic strategy to counteract AD progression influenced by gut factors. These findings open new avenues for AD prevention and the disease management, especially via dietary interventions targeting the gastro-intestinal system.