Alpha-lipoic acid ameliorates tauopathy-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and behavioral deficits through the balance of DIAP1/DrICE ratio and redox homeostasis: Age is a determinant factor

Modeling the neuroimmune system in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases

Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are neurodegenerative disorders caused by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and familial factors. These diseases have distinct pathologies and symptoms that are linked to specific cell populations in the brain. Notably, the immune system has been implicated in both diseases, with a particular focus on the dysfunction of microglia, the brain's resident immune cells, contributing to neuronal loss and exacerbating symptoms. Researchers use models of the neuroimmune system to gain a deeper understanding of the physiological and biological aspects of these neurodegenerative diseases and how they progress. Several in vitro and in vivo models, including 2D cultures and animal models, have been utilized. Recently, advancements have been made in optimizing these existing models and developing 3D models and organ-on-a-chip systems, holding tremendous promise in accurately mimicking the intricate intracellular environment. As a result, these models represent a crucial breakthrough in the transformation of current treatments for PD and AD by offering potential for conducting long-term disease-based modeling for therapeutic testing, reducing reliance on animal models, and significantly improving cell viability compared to conventional 2D models. The application of 3D and organ-on-a-chip models in neurodegenerative disease research marks a prosperous step forward, providing a more realistic representation of the complex interactions within the neuroimmune system. Ultimately, these refined models of the neuroimmune system aim to aid in the quest to combat and mitigate the impact of debilitating neuroimmune diseases on patients and their families.

Recent insights into the role of glia and oxidative stress in Alzheimer's disease gained from Drosophila

Here, we discuss findings made using Drosophila on Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk and progression. Recent studies have investigated the mechanisms underlying glia-mediated neuroprotection in AD. First, we discuss a novel mechanism of glial lipid droplet formation that occurs in response to elevated reactive oxygen species in neurons. The data suggest that disruptions to this process contribute to AD risk. We further discuss novel mechanistic insights into glia-mediated Aβ42-clearance made using the fly. Finally, we highlight work that provides evidence that the aberrant accumulation of reactive oxygen species in AD may not just be a consequence of disease but contribute to disease progression as well. Cumulatively, the discussed studies highlight recent, relevant discoveries in AD made using Drosophila.