All articles tagged with #synaptic function
Pathogenic variants in UNC13A impair synaptic function, causing a neurodevelopmental syndrome with diverse clinical features, including profound developmental delay, seizures, and movement disorders, through mechanisms affecting protein expression and synaptic plasticity.
Researchers at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology have developed a synthetic peptide, PHDP5, that reverses Alzheimer's symptoms in mice by enhancing synaptic function. The peptide can cross the blood-brain barrier and is most effective when administered early, potentially delaying cognitive decline. This breakthrough could lead to new therapies for Alzheimer's, with human trials on the horizon.
Researchers at Kobe University have identified FAM81A as a critical protein involved in forming postsynaptic protein agglomerations essential for synaptic function in the brain. FAM81A interacts with key postsynaptic proteins, regulates their assembly, and impacts neuron function through liquid-liquid phase separation. The protein's presence in the postsynaptic density suggests its significance in maintaining synaptic activity, providing insights into synaptic mechanisms and the evolution of cognitive functions in higher vertebrates. This discovery opens new avenues for exploring potential implications for neuropsychiatric conditions.
A new theory proposes that the interaction between two proteins, talin and amyloid precursor protein (APP), may play a crucial role in the development of Alzheimer's disease by affecting the mechanical stability of synapses. This theory suggests a potential "mechanical basis" for the disease and opens up new possibilities for drug targeting and early diagnosis. The authors emphasize the need for rigorous experimental validation and are exploring the repurposing of existing drugs to slow the progression of Alzheimer's.