Rapid stimulation of amyloid precursor protein release by epidermal growth factor: role of protein kinase C

Neuropathological stage-dependent proteome mapping of the olfactory tract in Alzheimer's disease: From early olfactory-related omics signatures to computational repurposing of drug candidates

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, characterized by an early olfactory dysfunction, progressive memory loss, and behavioral deterioration. Albeit substantial progress has been made in characterizing AD-associated molecular and cellular events, there is an unmet clinical need for new therapies. In this study, olfactory tract proteotyping performed in controls and AD subjects (n = 17/group) showed a Braak stage-dependent proteostatic impairment accompanied by the progressive modulation of amyloid precursor protein and tau functional interactomes. To implement a computational repurposing of drug candidates with the capacity to reverse early AD-related olfactory omics signatures (OMSs), we generated a consensual OMSs database compiling differential omics datasets obtained by mass-spectrometry or RNA-sequencing derived from initial AD across the olfactory axis. Using the Connectivity Map-based drug repurposing approach, PKC, EGFR, Aurora kinase, Glycogen synthase kinase, and CDK inhibitors were the top pharmacologic classes capable to restore multiple OMSs, whereas compounds with targeted activity to inhibit PI3K, Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), microtubules, and Polo-like kinase (PLK) represented a family of drugs with detrimental potential to induce olfactory AD-associated gene expression changes. To validate the potential therapeutic effects of the proposed drugs, in vitro assays were performed. These validation experiments revealed that pretreatment of human neuron-like SH-SY5Y cells with the EGFR inhibitor AG-1478 showed a neuroprotective effect against hydrogen peroxide-induced damage while the pretreatment with the Aurora kinase inhibitor Reversine reduced amyloid-beta (Aβ)-induced neurotoxicity. Taken together, our data pointed out that OMSs may be useful as substrates for drug repurposing to propose novel neuroprotective treatments against AD.

APP Binds to the EGFR Ligands HB-EGF and EGF, Acting Synergistically with EGF to Promote ERK Signaling and Neuritogenesis

The amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a transmembrane glycoprotein central to Alzheimer's disease (AD) with functions in brain development and plasticity, including in neurogenesis and neurite outgrowth. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) and heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF) are well-described neurotrophic and neuromodulator EGFR ligands, both implicated in neurological disorders, including AD. Pro-HB-EGF arose as a putative novel APP interactor in a human brain cDNA library yeast two-hybrid screen. Based on their structural and functional similarities, we first aimed to verify if APP could bind to (HB-)EGF proforms. Here, we show that APP interacts with these two EGFR ligands, and further characterized the effects of APP-EGF interaction in ERK activation and neuritogenesis. Yeast co-transformation and co-immunoprecipitation assays confirmed APP interaction with HB-EGF. Co-immunoprecipitation also revealed that APP binds to cellular pro-EGF. Overexpression of HB-EGF in HeLa cells, or exposure of SH-SY5Y cells to EGF, both resulted in increased APP protein levels. EGF and APP were observed to synergistically activate the ERK pathway, crucial for neuronal differentiation. Immunofluorescence analysis of cellular neuritogenesis in APP overexpression and EGF exposure conditions confirmed a synergistic effect in promoting the number and the mean length of neurite-like processes. Synergistic ERK activation and neuritogenic effects were completely blocked by the EGFR inhibitor PD 168393, implying APP/EGF-induced activation of EGFR as part of the mechanism. This work shows novel APP protein interactors and provides a major insight into the APP/EGF-driven mechanisms underlying neurite outgrowth and neuronal differentiation, with potential relevance for AD and for adult neuroregeneration.

IL-1R-/- alleviates cognitive deficits through microglial M2 polarization in AD mice

The neuroinflammatory response is considered a crucial event in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Neurotoxic amyloid β (Aβ) oligomers activate neuronal glial cells, leading to the elevated generation of a large variety of inflammatory factors. Therefore, the regulation of interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1R) activity is believed to be a potential target for AD therapy. However, previous evidence of the role of IL-1R in AD-related neuroinflammation is ambiguous. To reveal the exact role of IL-1R in AD and related inflammatory reactions, we generated IL-1R^-/- AD mice. Based on the Morris water maze results, 4-month-old IL-1R^-/- AD mice showed better learning and memory ability than that of AD mice. However, IL-1R^-/- had little influence on amyloid precursor protein proteolysis, while IL-1R^-/- increased ADAM17 expression level. Surprisingly, IL-1R^-/- even enhanced glial activation. IL-1R^-/- indeed attenuated inflammatory cytokine secretion, especially that of cytokins associated with M1 polarization, while it led to increased levels of some cytokins associated with M2 polarization. Finally, we found that IL-1R^-/- reduced the phagocytic ability of microglia. Taken together, these results suggest that IL-1R deficiency may alleviate cognitive deficits in AD mice in a manner that is partially dependent on ADAM17 regulation and microglia M2 repolarization.

Autism genes and the leukocyte transcriptome in autistic toddlers relate to pathogen interactomes, infection and the immune system. A role for excess neurotrophic sAPPα and reduced antimicrobial Aβ

Prenatal and early childhood infections have been implicated in autism. Many autism susceptibility genes (206 Autworks genes) are localised in the immune system and are related to immune/infection pathways. They are enriched in the host/pathogen interactomes of 18 separate microbes (bacteria/viruses and fungi) and to the genes regulated by bacterial toxins, mycotoxins and Toll-like receptor ligands. This enrichment was also observed for misregulated genes from a microarray study of leukocytes from autistic toddlers. The upregulated genes from this leukocyte study also matched the expression profiles in response to numerous infectious agents from the Broad Institute molecular signatures database. They also matched genes related to sudden infant death syndrome and autism comorbid conditions (autoimmune disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, diabetes, epilepsy and cardiomyopathy) as well as to estrogen and thyrotropin responses and to those upregulated by different types of stressors including oxidative stress, hypoxia, endoplasmic reticulum stress, ultraviolet radiation or 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene, a hapten used to develop allergic skin reactions in animal models. The oxidative/integrated stress response is also upregulated in the autism brain and may contribute to myelination problems. There was also a marked similarity between the expression signatures of autism and Alzheimer's disease, and 44 shared autism/Alzheimer's disease genes are almost exclusively expressed in the blood-brain barrier. However, in contrast to Alzheimer's disease, levels of the antimicrobial peptide beta-amyloid are decreased and the levels of the neurotrophic/myelinotrophic soluble APP alpha are increased in autism, together with an increased activity of α-secretase. sAPPα induces an increase in glutamatergic and a decrease in GABA-ergic synapses creating and excitatory/inhibitory imbalance that has also been observed in autism. A literature survey showed that multiple autism genes converge on APP processing and that many are able to increase sAPPalpha at the expense of beta-amyloid production. A genetically programmed tilt of this axis towards an overproduction of neurotrophic/gliotrophic sAPPalpha and underproduction of antimicrobial beta-amyloid may explain the brain overgrowth and myelination dysfunction, as well as the involvement of pathogens in autism.

The Distinct Role of ADAM17 in APP Proteolysis and Microglial Activation Related to Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with the symptom of cognitive impairment. The deposition of amyloid β (Aβ) peptide is believed to be the primary cause to neuronal dystrophy and eventually dementia. Aβ is the proteolytic product from its precursor amyloid precursor protein (APP) by β- and γ- secretase. An optional cleavage by α-secretase happens inside the Aβ domain. ADAM17 is supposed to be the regulated α-secretase of APP. Enhanced activity of ADAM17 leads to the increasing secretion of neuroprotective soluble APP α fragment and reduction of Aβ generation, which may be benefit to the disease. ADAM17 is then considered the potential therapeutic target for AD. Microglia activation and neuroinflammation is another important event in AD pathogenesis. Interestingly, ADAM17 also participates in the cleavage of many other membrane-bound proteins, especially some inflammatory factors related to microglia activation. The facilitating role of ADAM17 in inflammation and further neuronal damage has also been illustrated. In results, the activation of ADAM17 as the solution to AD may be a tricky task. The comprehensive consideration and evaluation has to be carried out carefully before the final treatment. In the present review, the distinct role of ADAM17 in AD-related APP shedding and neuroinflammatory microglial activation will be carefully discussed.

Activation of mTOR: a culprit of Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by cognitive impairment in clinical presentation, and by β-amyloid (Aβ) production and the hyper-phosphorylation of tau in basic research. More highlights demonstrate that the activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) enhances Aβ generation and deposition by modulating amyloid precursor protein (APP) metabolism and upregulating β- and γ-secretases. mTOR, an inhibitor of autophagy, decreases Aβ clearance by scissoring autophagy function. mTOR regulates Aβ generation or Aβ clearance by regulating several key signaling pathways, including phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3-K)/protein kinase B (Akt), glycogen synthase kinase 3 [GSK-3], AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). The activation of mTOR is also a contributor to aberrant hyperphosphorylated tau. Rapamycin, the inhibitor of mTOR, may mitigate cognitive impairment and inhibit the pathologies associated with amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles by promoting autophagy. Furthermore, the upstream and downstream components of mTOR signaling are involved in the pathogenesis and progression of AD. Hence, inhibiting the activation of mTOR may be an important therapeutic target for AD.

Our "energy-Ca(2+) signaling deficits" hypothesis and its explanatory potential for key features of Alzheimer's disease

Sporadic Alzheimer's disease (sAD) has not been explained by any current theories, so new hypotheses are urgently needed. We proposed that "energy and Ca(2+) signaling deficits" are perhaps the earliest modifiable defects in brain aging underlying memory decline and tau deposits (by means of inactivating Ca(2+)-dependent protease calpain). Consistent with this hypothesis, we now notice that at least eight other known calpain substrates have also been reported to accumulate in aging and AD. Thus, protein accumulation or aggregation is not a "pathogenic" event, but occurs naturally and selectively to a peculiar family of proteins, and is best explained by calpain inactivation. Why are only calpain substrates accumulated and how can they stay for decades in the brain without being attacked by many other non-specific proteases there? We believe that these long-lasting puzzles can be explained by calpain's unique properties, especially its unusual specificity and exclusivity in substrate recognition, which can protect the substrates from other proteases' attacks after calpain inactivation. Interestingly, our model, in essence, may also explain tau phosphorylation and the formation of amyloid plaques. Our studies suggest that α-secretase is an energy-/Ca(2+)-dual dependent protease and is also the primary determinant for Aβ levels. Therefore, β- and γ-secretases can only play secondary roles and, by biological laws, they are unlikely to be "positively identified". This study thus raises serious questions for policymakers and researchers and these questions may help explain why sAD can remain an enigma today.

Serum epidermal growth factor predicts cognitive functions in early, drug-naive Parkinson's disease patients

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) has been proposed as a candidate biomarker for cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease (PD). We aimed to assess the relationship between serum EGF and cognitive functions in early, drug-naive PD patients and evaluate the predictive value of EGF on cognitive functions in a 2-year follow-up study. Serum EGF was measured in 65 early, drug-naive PD patients, that underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. Motor symptoms were assessed by means of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, Part III (UPDRS-III). Neuropsychological evaluation was repeated after 2 years. Spearman's rank correlation was used to assess the relationship between serum EGF levels and neuropsychological variables. Linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between EGF and neuropsychological scores as well as other variables (age, gender, UPDRS-III, levodopa equivalent dose, and type of treatment at follow-up) potentially affecting cognitive performance. Variation over time in cognitive scores was analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA. At baseline, EGF was the only significant variable associated with performance on semantic fluency (R (2) = 0.131; p = 0.005). EGF levels (p = 0.025), together with UPDRS-III (p = 0.009) and age (p = 0.011), were associated with performance on frontal assessment battery (R (2) = 0.260). At 2-year follow-up, EGF was the only significant variable to predict performance on semantic fluency (R (2) = 0.147; p = 0.025) and color naming task of Stroop color-word test (R (2) = 0.121; p = 0.044). Serum EGF levels are related to frontal and temporal cognitive functions in early, drug-naive PD patients and predict performance on frontal and posterior cognitive functions at 2-year follow-up. EGF is proposed as a potential serum biomarker for early cognitive impairment in PD.

Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)-induced processing of amyloid-beta precursor protein (APP) and APP-like protein 2 is mediated by different metalloproteinases

alpha-Secretase cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) is of great interest because it prevents the formation of the Alzheimer-linked amyloid-beta peptide. APP belongs to a conserved gene family including the two paralogues APP-like protein (APLP) 1 and 2. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) stimulates the shedding of all three proteins. IGF-1-induced shedding of both APP and APLP1 is dependent on phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K), whereas APLP2 shedding is independent of this signaling pathway. Here, we used human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells to investigate the involvement of protein kinase C (PKC) in the proteolytic processing of endogenously expressed members of the APP family. Processing was induced by IGF-1 or retinoic acid, another known stimulator of APP alpha-secretase shedding. Our results show that stimulation of APP and APLP1 processing involves multiple signaling pathways, whereas APLP2 processing is mainly dependent on PKC. Next, we wanted to investigate whether the difference in the regulation of APLP2 shedding compared with APP shedding could be due to involvement of different processing enzymes. We focused on the two major alpha-secretase candidates ADAM10 and TACE, which both are members of the ADAM (a disintegrin and metalloprotease) family. Shedding was analyzed in the presence of the ADAM10 inhibitor GI254023X, or after transfection with small interfering RNAs targeted against TACE. The results clearly demonstrate that different alpha-secretases are involved in IGF-1-induced processing. APP is mainly cleaved by ADAM10, whereas APLP2 processing is mediated by TACE. Finally, we also show that IGF-1 induces PKC-dependent phosphorylation of TACE.

Neurogenesis and Alzheimer's disease: at the crossroads

While a massive and progressive neuronal loss in specific areas such as the hippocampus and cortex unequivocally underlies cognitive deterioration and memory loss in Alzheimer's disease, noteworthy alterations take place in the neurogenic microenvironments, namely, the subgranule layer of the dentate gyrus and the subventricular zone. Compromised neurogenesis presumably takes place earlier than onset of hallmark lesions or neuronal loss, and may play a role in the initiation and progression of neuropathology in Alzheimer's disease. Neurogenesis in the adult brain is thought to play a role in numerous forms and aspects of learning and memory and contribute to the plasticity of the hippocampus and olfactory system. Misregulated or impaired neurogenesis on the other hand, may compromise plasticity and neuronal function in these areas and exacerbate neuronal vulnerability. Interestingly, increasing evidence suggests that molecular players in Alzheimer's disease, including PS1, APP and its metabolites, play a role in adult neurogenesis. In addition, recent studies suggest that alterations in tau phosphorylation are pronounced in neurogenic areas, and may interfere with the potential central role of tau proteins in neuronal maturation and differentiation. On the other hand, numerous neurogenic players, such as Notch-1, ErbB4 and L1 are substrates of alpha- beta- and gamma- secretase that play a major role in Alzheimer's disease. This review will discuss current knowledge concerning alterations of neurogenesis in Alzheimer's disease with specific emphasis on the cross-talk between signaling molecules involved in both processes, and the ways by which familial Alzheimer's disease-linked dysfunction of these signaling molecules affect neurogenesis in the adult brain.

Amyloid precursor protein and its homologues: a family of proteolysis-dependent receptors

The Alzheimer's amyloid precursor protein (APP) belongs to a conserved gene family that also includes the mammalian APLP1 and APLP2, the Drosophila APPL, and the C. elegans APL-1. The biological function of APP is still not fully clear. However, it is known that the APP family proteins have redundant and partly overlapping functions, which demonstrates the importance of studying all APP family members to gain a more complete picture. When APP was first cloned, it was speculated that it could function as a receptor. This theory has been further substantiated by studies showing that APP and its homologues bind both extracellular ligands and intracellular adaptor proteins. The APP family proteins undergo regulated intramembrane proteolysis (RIP), generating secreted and cytoplasmic fragments that have been ascribed different functions. In this review, we will discuss the APP family with focus on biological functions, binding partners, and regulated processing.

Post-transcriptional up-regulation of ADAM17 upon epidermal growth factor receptor activation and in breast tumors

ADAM17 is a transmembrane metalloprotease involved in the proteolytic release of the extracellular domain of many cell surface molecules, a process known as ectodomain shedding. Despite its likely participation in tumor progression and its current consideration as a therapeutic target, very little is known about the regulation of the expression of ADAM17. Here we show that long term treatment with epidermal growth factor (EGF) leads to a marked increase in the levels of ADAM17. EGF receptor activation does not affect the levels of the mRNA that encodes for, or the rate of synthesis of, ADAM17 but increases its half-life. The effect of EGF is biologically relevant because it increases the shedding of several substrates of ADAM17, including the desmosomal cadherin Dsg-2. Analysis of protein and mRNA levels in mammary tumor samples shows that in vivo the levels of ADAM17 can also be controlled post-transcriptionally. Finally, we show that both the shed extracellular domains of Dsg-2 and ADAM17 are frequently expressed in tumors, further supporting the participation of the metalloprotease in malignant progression.

Nicotine modulates expression of amyloid precursor protein and amyloid precursor-like protein 2 in mouse brain and in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells

Epidemiological studies indicate that tobacco smoking can be protective against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). The objective of the present study was to examine the changes in gene expression induced by chronic oral nicotine administration (100 mug/ml in 2% saccharin for 14 days), with special emphasis on amyloid precursor protein (APP) and its homologue, amyloid precursor-like protein 2 (APLP2), in different brain regions of C57BL/6 mice using a pathway-focused microarray. Our results revealed that nicotine stimulated mRNA expression of APP in the amygdala (64%; P = 0.003) and hippocampus (32%; P = 0.034) and of APLP2 in the amygdala (39%; P = 0.002). These results were verified by quantitative real-time RT-PCR except that expression of APLP2 was also significantly upregulated by nicotine in the hippocampus. In addition, in vitro nicotine treatment of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells resulted in a significant increase in expression of APP protein, soluble APP, and APLP2, whereas co-treatment with mecamylamine (an antagonist of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors) attenuated the stimulating effect of nicotine on APP and APLP2 expression. These findings suggest that nicotine treatment facilitates the increase in the expression of mRNA and protein of the APP and APLP2 genes in rat brain and SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells.

Direct involvement of G protein alpha(q/11) subunit in regulation of muscarinic receptor-mediated sAPPalpha release

The G(q/11) protein-coupled receptors, such as muscarinic (M1 & M3) receptors, have been shown to regulate the release of a soluble amyloid precursor protein (sAPPalpha) produced from alpha-secretase processing. However, there is no direct evidence for the precise characteristics of G proteins, and the signaling mechanism for the regulation of G(q/11) protein-coupled receptor-mediated sAPPalpha release is not clearly understood. This study examined whether the muscarinic receptor-mediated release of sAPPalpha is directly regulated by Galpha(q/11) proteins. The HEK293 cells were transiently cotransfected with muscarinic M3 receptors and a dominant-negative minigene construct of the G protein alpha subunit. The sAPPalpha release in the media was measured using an antibody specific for sAPP. The sAPPalpha release enhancement induced by muscarinic receptor stimulation was decreased by a G(q/11) minigene construct, whereas it was not blocked by a control minigene construct (the Galpha carboxy peptide in random order, Galpha(q)R) or Galpha(i) constructs. This indicated a direct role of the Galpha(q/11) protein in the regulation of muscarinic M3 receptor-mediated sAPPalpha release. We also investigated whether the transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) by a muscarinic agonist could regulate the sAPPalpha release in SH-SY5Y cells. Pretreatment of a specific EGFR kinase inhibitor, tyrophostin AG1478 (250 nM), blocked the EGF-stimulated sAPPalpha release, but did not block the oxoM-stimulated sAPPalpha release. This demonstrated that the transactivation of the EGFR by muscarinic receptor activation was not involved in the muscarinic receptor-mediated sAPPalpha release.

The repressive effect of green tea ingredients on amyloid precursor protein (APP) expression in oral carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo

In a hamster model of N-methyl-N-benzylnitrosamine (MBN)-induced oral carcinogenesis, the incidence of buccal pouch (HBP) carcinomas in MBN-treated hamsters (17.8+/-7.5) was significantly higher than MBN-treated hamsters given tea (10.8+/-3.9) (P<0.05). Amyloid precursor protein (APP) expression was also significantly increased in MBN-induced HBP carcinomas but was significantly reduced by tea intake (P<0.0001). Furthermore, APP expression and secretion by OECM-1 oral squamous cell carcinoma cells was inhibited by a major polyphenolic ingredient of green tea, (-)-epigallocatechin gallate, in a dose-dependent manner. Thus, APP might promote oral carcinogenesis, whereas green tea ingredients might diminish it by down-regulating APP.

P2Y2 nucleotide receptors enhance alpha-secretase-dependent amyloid precursor protein processing

The amyloid precursor protein (APP) is proteolytically processed by beta- and gamma-secretases to release amyloid beta, the main component in senile plaques found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer disease. Alternatively, APP can be cleaved within the amyloid beta domain by alpha-secretase releasing the non-amyloidogenic product sAPP alpha, which has been shown to have neuroprotective properties. Several G protein-coupled receptors are known to activate alpha-secretase-dependent processing of APP; however, the role of G protein-coupled nucleotide receptors in APP processing has not been investigated. Here it is demonstrated that activation of the G protein-coupled P2Y2 receptor (P2Y2R) subtype expressed in human 1321N1 astrocytoma cells enhanced the release of sAPP alpha in a time- and dose-dependent manner. P2Y2 R-mediated sAPP alpha release was dependent on extracellular calcium but was not affected by 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N,-trimethylammonium salt, an intracellular calcium chelator, indicating that P2Y2R-stimulated intracellular calcium mobilization was not involved. Inhibition of protein kinase C (PKC) with GF109203 or by PKC down-regulation with phorbol ester pre-treatment had no effect on UTP-stimulated sAPP alpha release, indicating a PKC-independent mechanism. U0126, an inhibitor of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, partially inhibited sAPPalpha release by UTP, whereas inhibitors of Src-dependent epidermal growth factor receptor transactivation by P2Y2Rs had no effect. The metalloprotease inhibitors phenanthroline and TAPI-2 and the furin inhibitor decanoyl-Arg-Val-Lys-Arg-chloromethylketone also diminished UTP-induced sAPP alpha release. Furthermore, small interfering RNA silencing of an endogenous adamalysin, ADAM10 or ADAM17/TACE, partially suppressed P2Y2R-activated sAPP alpha release, whereas treatment of cells with both ADAM10 and ADAM17/TACE small interfering RNAs completely abolished UTP-activated sAPP alpha release. These results may contribute to an understanding of the non-amyloidogenic processing of APP.

The non-amyloidogenic pathway: structure and function of alpha-secretases

The amyloid cascade hypothesis is the most accepted explanation for the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). APP is the precursor of the amyloid beta peptide (Abeta), the principal proteinaceous component of amyloid plaques in brains of Alzheimer's disease patients. Proteolytic cleavage of APP by the alpha-secretase within the Abeta sequence precludes formation of amyloidogenic peptides and leads to a release of soluble APPsalpha which has neuroprotective properties. In several studies, a decreased amount of APPsalpha in the cerebrospinal fluid of AD patients has been observed. Three members of the ADAM family (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase) ADAM-10, ADAM-17 (TACE) and ADAM-9 have been proposed as alpha-secretases. We review the evidence for each of these enzymes acting as a physiologically relevant alpha-secretase. In particular, we focus on ADAM-10, which recently was shown in a transgenic mouse model for AD, to act as an alpha-secretase in vivo. We also discuss the pharmacological up-regulation of alpha-secretases as a possible therapeutic treatment for AD.

Increased expression of amyloid precursor protein in oral squamous cell carcinoma

In our previous study, we identified amyloid precursor protein (APP) in an oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)-enriching subtractive hybridization library. Our present study attempts to define the significance of APP expression in the genesis of OSCC. RT-PCR analysis showed increase in APP mRNA expression for more than 2-fold in 76% of OSCC (n = 55) relative to corresponding non-cancerous matched tissues (NCMT). The majority of esophageal SCCs also had increase in APP mRNA expression. OSCC patients exhibiting increase in APP mRNA expression had significantly lower survival rate compared to patients exhibiting the opposite status. Western blotting analysis identified APP751 and APP770 as the major APP isoforms in oral keratinocytes. A high correlation between mRNA and protein expressions of APP was noted in OSCC/NCMT pairs. Immunohistochemistry further showed a remarkable increase of APP in OSCC tissue relative to NCMT. Treatment with an antisense oligonucleotide against APP reduced cellular and secreted APP as well as growth in an OSCC cell line. Our study provides novel clues that APP expression is involved in the proliferation and carcinogenesis of OSCC. Correlated with such pathogenesis was the survival of its victims. The degree of APP expression could serve as an invaluable marker for oral carcinogenesis.

Soluble form of amyloid precursor protein regulates proliferation of progenitors in the adult subventricular zone

The amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a type I transmembrane protein of unknown physiological function. Its soluble secreted form (sAPP) shows similarities with growth factors and increases the in vitro proliferation of embryonic neural stem cells. As neurogenesis is an ongoing process in the adult mammalian brain, we have investigated a role for sAPP in adult neurogenesis. We show that the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the lateral ventricle, the largest neurogenic area of the adult brain, is a major sAPP binding site and that binding occurs on progenitor cells expressing the EGF receptor. These EGF-responsive cells can be cultured as neurospheres (NS). In vitro, EGF provokes soluble APP (sAPP) secretion by NS and anti-APP antibodies antagonize the EGF-induced NS proliferation. In vivo, sAPP infusions increase the number of EGF-responsive progenitors through their increased proliferation. Conversely, blocking sAPP secretion or downregulating APP synthesis decreases the proliferation of EGF-responsive cells, which leads to a reduction of the pool of progenitors. These results reveal a new function for sAPP as a regulator of SVZ progenitor proliferation in the adult central nervous system.

Accumulation of the amyloid precursor-like protein APLP2 and reduction of APLP1 in retinoic acid-differentiated human neuroblastoma cells upon curcumin-induced neurite retraction

Amyloid precursor protein (APP) belongs to a conserved gene family, also including the amyloid precursor-like proteins, APLP1 and APLP2. The function of these three proteins is not yet fully understood. One of the proposed roles of APP is to promote neurite outgrowth. The aim of this study was to investigate the regulation of the expression levels of APP family members during neurite outgrowth. We observed that retinoic acid (RA)-induced neuronal differentiation of human SH-SY5Y cells resulted in increased expression of APP, APLP1 and APLP2. We also examined the effect of the NFkappaB, AP-1 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase inhibitor curcumin (diferuloylmethane) on the RA-induced expression levels of these proteins. We found that treatment with curcumin counteracted the RA-induced mRNA expression of all APP family members. In addition, we observed that curcumin treatment resulted in neurite retraction without any effect on cell viability. Surprisingly, curcumin had differential effects on the APLP protein levels in RA-differentiated cells. RA-induced APLP1 protein expression was blocked by curcumin, while the APLP2 protein levels were further increased. APP protein levels were not affected by curcumin treatment. We propose that the sustained levels of APP and the elevated levels of APLP2, in spite of the reduced mRNA expression, are due to altered proteolytic processing of these proteins. Furthermore, our results suggest that APLP1 does not undergo the same type of regulated processing as APP and APLP2.

Advances in the cellular and molecular biology of the beta-amyloid protein in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive senile dementia characterized by deposition of a 4 kDa peptide of 39-42 residues known as amyloid beta-peptide (Abeta) in the form of senile plaques and the microtubule associated protein tau as paired helical filaments. Genetic studies have identified mutations in the Abeta precursor protein (APP) as the key triggers for the pathogenesis of AD. Other genes such as presenilins 1 and 2 (PS1/2) and apolipoprotein E (APOE) also play a critical role in increased Abeta deposition. Several biochemical and molecular studies using transfected cells and transgenic animals point to mechanisms by which Abeta is generated and aggregated to trigger the neurodegeneration that may cause AD. Three important enzymes collectively known as "secretases" participate in APP processing. An enzymatic activity, beta-secretase, cleaves APP on the amino side of Abeta producing a large secreted derivative, sAPPbeta, and an Abeta-bearing membrane-associated C-terminal derivative, CTFbeta, which is subsequently cleaved by the second activity, gamma-secretase, to release Abeta. Alternatively, a third activity, alpha-secretase, cleaves APP within Abeta to the secreted derivative sAPPalpha and membrane-associated CTFalpha. The predominant secreted APP derivative is sAPPalpha in most cell-types. Most of the secreted Abeta is 40 residues long (Abeta40) although a small percentage is 42 residues in length (Abeta42). However, the longer Abeta42 aggregates more readily and was therefore considered to be the pathologically important form. Advances in our understanding of APP processing, trafficking, and turnover will pave the way for better drug discovery for the eventual treatment of AD. In addition, APP gene regulation and its interaction with other proteins may provide useful drug targets for AD. The emerging knowledge related to the normal function of APP will help in determining whether or not the AD associated changes in APP metabolism affect its function. The present review summarizes our current understanding of APP metabolism and function and their relationship to other proteins involved in AD.

Molecular basis of neuroprotective activities of rasagiline and the anti-Alzheimer drug TV3326 [(N-propargyl-(3R)aminoindan-5-YL)-ethyl methyl carbamate]

Rasagiline (N-propargyl-1-(R)-aminoindan) is a selective, irreversible monoamine oxidase B (MAO B) inhibitor which has been developed as an anti-Parkinson drug. In controlled monotherapy and as adjunct to L-dopa it has shown anti-Parkinson activity. In cell culture (PC-12 and neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells) it exhibits neuroprotective and anti-apoptotic activity against several neurotoxins (SIN-1, MPTP, 6-hydroxydopamine and N-methyl-(R)-salsolinol) and ischemia. In vivo, it reduces the sequelae of traumatic brain injury in mice and speeds their recovery. The neuroprotective activity of rasagaline does not result from MAO B inhibition, since its S-enantiomer, TVP1022, which has 1000-fold weaker MAO inhibitory activity, exhibits similar neuroprotective properties. Introduction of a carbamate moiety into the rasagiline molecule to confer cholinesterase inhibitory activity for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, resulted in compounds TV3326 [(N-Propargyl-(3R)Aminoindan-5-YL)-Ethyl Methyl Carbamate] and its S-enantiomer TV3279 [(N-Propargyl-(3S)Aminoindan-5-YL)-Ethyl Methyl Carbamate], which retain the neuroprotective activities of rasagiline and TVP1022. They also antagonize scopolamine-induced impairments in spatial memory. In addition, TV3326 exhibits brain-selective MAO A and B inhibitory activity after chronic administration and has antidepressant-like activity in the forced swim test. This is associated with an increase in brain levels of serotonin. The anti-apoptotic activity of these propargylamine-containing derivatives may be related to their ability to delay the opening of voltage-dependent anion channels (VDAC), which are part of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. The propargylamine moiety is responsible for the increase in the mitochondrial family of Bcl-2 proteins, prevention in the fall in mitochondrial membrane potential, prevention of the activation of caspase 3, and of translocation of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. The latter processes are closely associated with neurotoxin-induced apoptosis. Rasagiline interacts with and prevents the binding of PKI 1195 to the pro-apoptotic peripheral benzodiazepine receptor, which together with Bcl-2, hexokinase, porin, and adenine nucleotide translocator constitutes part of the VDAC. Furthermore, rasagiline, TV3326 and TV3279 are able to influence the processing of amyloid precursor protein by activation of alpha-secretase and increasing the release of soluble alpha APP in rat PC-12 and human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells and in rat and mice cortex and hippocampus. This process has been shown to involve the upregulation of PKC and MAP kinase. It is quite likely that the induction of Bcl-2 and activation of PKC by rasagiline and TV3326 is closely linked to the anti-apoptotic action of these drugs and their ability to process APP by activation of alpha-secretase.

Estrogen replacement therapy for the potential treatment or prevention of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that occurs gradually and results in memory loss, behavior and personality changes, and a decline in cognitive abilities. Although basic biological data suggest that estrogen may have neuroprotective and neuroenhancing functions, a number of studies have produced conflicting findings on the use of estrogen for maintaining cognitive function in older people. This review summarizes clinical studies that have examined the effects of estrogen in women with AD.

A role for MAP kinase in regulating ectodomain shedding of APLP2 in corneal epithelial cells

We previously reported an increased secretion of amyloid precursor-like protein 2 (APLP2) in the healing corneal epithelium. The present study sought to investigate signal transduction pathways involved in APLP2 shedding in vitro. APLP2 was constitutively shed and released into culture medium in SV40-immortalized human corneal epithelial cells as assessed by Western blotting, flow cytometry, and indirect immunofluorescence. Activation of protein kinase C (PKC) by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) caused significant increases in APLP2 shedding. This was inhibited by staurosporine and a PKC-epsilon-specific, N-myristoylated peptide inhibitor. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) also induced APLP2 accumulation in culture medium. Basal APLP2 shedding as well as that induced by PMA and EGF was blocked by a mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase inhibitor, U-0126. Our results suggest that MAPK activity accounts for basal as well as PKC- and EGF-induced APLP2 shedding. In addition, PKC-epsilon may be involved in the induction of APLP2 shedding in corneal epithelial cells.

PKCdelta-dependent deubiquitination and stabilization of Gadd45 in A431 cells overexposed to EGF

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor-overexpressing p53-deficient A431 cells response to toxic dose of EGF by G1 arrest and apoptosis was studied. We previously reported an increased expression of growth arrest and DNA-damage-inducible gene, Gadd45, in EGF-overexposed A431 cells. The mechanism for this induction was increased half-lives of mRNA and protein. In this study, using phorbol ester (a PKC activator) and specific inhibitors of PKC isoforms, we showed that protein kinase C-delta (PKCdelta) was involved in the increase of Gadd45 protein stability. We further demonstrated that Gadd45 is ubiquitinated and is regulated by proteolysis. While EGF induced ubiquitination of total cellular proteins, there was a decrease in Gadd45 ubiquitination, which could be inhibited by Rottlerin, a PKCdelta-specific inhibitor. These results suggest that an increase in Gadd45 stability may involve PKCdelta-dependent ubiquitin-proteasome pathway.

Blockade of PKC epsilon activation attenuates phorbol ester-induced increase of alpha-secretase-derived secreted form of amyloid precursor protein

The role of PKC epsilon in amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing was investigated using APP-overexpressing B103 cells. As reported previously, a PKC activator, phorbol-12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu), enhanced secretion of APP alpha, and this effect was blocked by a PKC inhibitor, GF109203X in this system. Selective inhibition of PKC epsilon by overexpressing the PKC epsilon V1 region, which binds specifically to the receptor for activated C-kinase (RACK), blocked PDBu-induced enhancement of APP alpha secretion as well as PDBu-induced decrease in beta-secretase-derived APP C-terminal fragment production. On the other hand, the level of PKC epsilon, but not that of PKC alpha or PKC gamma, was substantially lower in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients compared to age-matched controls. These results add to a growing body of evidence that PKC epsilon plays an important role in modulating APP processing, and suggest that reduced PKC epsilon activity may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease.

Insulin regulates soluble amyloid precursor protein release via phosphatidyl inositol 3 kinase-dependent pathway

Several lines of biochemical evidence correlate the presence of energy metabolic defects with the functional alterations associated with brain aging and with the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Within this context we tested the ability of insulin to regulate the amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Our findings show that insulin promotes APP metabolism by a glucose-independent mechanism. We demonstrate a novel intracellular pathway that increases the rate of secretion of soluble APP through the activity of phosphatidyl-inositol 3 kinase (PI3-K). This pathway, downstream of insulin receptor tyrosine kinase activity, does not involve either the activation of protein kinase C or the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAP-K) pathway. Because of the physiological role of PI3-K in the translocation of glucose transporter-containing vesicles, we speculate that PI3-K involvement in APP metabolism may act at the level of vesicular trafficking.

The beta-amyloid precursor protein and its derivatives: from biology to learning and memory processes

Intensive investigation towards the understanding of the biology and physiological functions of the beta-amyloid precursor protein (APP) have been supported since it is known that a 39-43 amino acid fragment of APP, called the beta-amyloid protein (Abeta), accumulates in the brain parenchyma to form the typical lesions associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). It emerges from extensive data that APP and its derivatives show a wide range of contrasting physiological properties and therefore might be involved in distinct physiological functions. Abeta has been shown to disrupt neuronal activity and to demonstrate neurotoxic properties in a wide range of experimental procedures. In contrast, both in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that APP and/or its secreted forms are important factors involved in the viability, growth and morphological and functional plasticity of nerve cells. Furthermore, several recent studies suggest that APP and its derivatives have an important role in learning and memory processes. Memory impairments can be induced in animals by intracerebral treatment with Abeta. Altered expression of the APP gene in aged animals or in genetically-modified animals also leads to memory deficits. By contrast, secreted forms of APP have recently been shown to facilitate learning and memory processes in mice. These interesting findings open novel perspectives to understand the involvement of APP in the development of cognitive deficits associated with AD. In this review, we summarize the current data concerning the biology and the behavioral effects of APP and its derivatives which may be relevant to the roles of these proteins in memory and in AD pathology.

Amyloid beta peptide impaired carbachol but not glutamate-mediated phosphoinositide pathways in cultured rat cortical neurons

Signal transduction systems, including cholinergic pathways, which are likely to be of pathophysiological significance are altered in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Muscarinic cholinergic receptors are linked to the hydrolysis of phosphoinositide, involving the production of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate [Ins(1,4,5)P3] and the mobilization of cytosolic free calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]i). Effects of amyloid peptide (A(beta)) on these signals prior to neuronal degeneration were examined in cultured rat cortical cells. A(beta) increased the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in a concentration-dependent manner, however, it was blocked by B27 supplement. Prolonged exposure to a sublethal dose of A(beta) 25-35 or 1-42 disrupted carbachol-mediated release of Ins(1,4,5)P3 and [Ca2+]i, which was inhibited in media supplemented with B27 or the antioxidant vitamin E. In order to determine the specificity of the effect of A(beta), various agonists glutamate or KCl but not bradykinin which utilize the phosphoinositide cascade were investigated. Our results indicated that A(beta) did not affect the stimulation of glutamate or KCl-mediated production of Ins(1,4,5)P3 or cause elevation in [Ca2+]i. Furthermore, metabotropic agonist trans-1-amino-cyclopentane-1,3,-dicarboxylate (ACPD) elevated calcium level was not inhibited by A(beta) pre-treatment. Taken together, the results demonstrate that a sublethal dose of A(beta) selectively impaired cholinergic receptor-mediated signal transduction pathways, and antioxidant or B27 supplement attenuated this effect of A(beta). Alterations of cholinergic signaling by prolonged exposure to A(beta) could be involved in cortical neurodegeneration that occurs in AD. Because functional loss of cholinergic pathways is an important aspect of AD, the differences in susceptibility of these two types of receptors prior to other signs of A(beta) action is important and requires further investigation.

Regulation of amyloid precursor protein processing by presenilin 1 (PS1) and PS2 in PS1 knockout cells

The presenilin 1 (PS1) and PS2 proteins are thought to play roles in processing of amyloid precursor protein (APP), but the nature of this role is not fully understood. Recent studies have shown that PS1 is necessary for cleavage of APP at the gamma-secretase site. We now show that PS1 and PS2 participate in other aspects of APP processing. Fibroblasts generated from PS1 knockout mice have increased levels of the APP cleavage products, secreted APP (APPs), and APP C-terminal fragments, but lower secretion of APPs and Abeta. We have also observed that loss of PS1 prevents protein kinase C or extracellular regulated kinase from increasing production of the APP cleavage products, APPs, and APP C-terminal fragments. Transfection of PS1 -/- cells with PS1 restores the responsiveness of APP processing to protein kinase C and extracellular regulated kinase. This suggests that the changes in APP processing in PS1 -/- cells result strictly from the absence of PS1. Transfection of PS1 -/- cells with PS2 is also able to correct the deficits in APP secretion, which suggests that the PS2 also has the ability to regulate APP processing. Finally, transfection of the truncated PS2 construct, Alg3, into cells lacking PS1 increases APP C-terminal fragments. This suggests that Alg3 can interfere with the processing of APP by PS2. These data point to roles for both PS1 and PS2 in regulating APP processing and suggest that the role of these proteins also includes coupling APP to signal transduction pathways.

The effect of corticosteroids on amyloid beta precursor protein/amyloid precursor-like protein expression and processing in vivo

In this study, we have investigated the effect of altered corticosteroid levels on the expression and processing of the amyloid beta precursor protein (A betaPP) and its amyloid precursor-like protein (APLP) homologue in rat brain. Four groups of animals were used in the study: sham operated, adrenalectomised, and adrenalectomised treated with either dexamethasone or aldosterone, with the A betaPP/APLP expression being determined by western blot analysis. While there were no changes in the levels of A betaPP/APLP following adrenalectomy, treatment with dexamethasone, but not aldosterone, resulted in a marked increase in protein expression levels with the level of increase varying between the brain regions examined. Corticosteroids had a more marked effect on the particulate rather than the soluble form of the protein, thus suggesting that elevated glucocorticoids may also be adversely influencing A betaPP/APLP processing.

Rationalizing a pharmacological intervention on the amyloid precursor protein metabolism

The treatment of Alzheimer's disease remains a major challenge because of our incomplete understanding of the triggering events that lead to the selective neurodegeneration characteristic of Alzheimer's brains. The rational design of a pharmacological intervention is therefore a great theoretical challenge. One approach involves the study of the pharmacological modulation of the amyloid precursor protein metabolism, in which the goal is to reduce the formation of beta-amyloid in the hope of reducing the formation of a potentially neurotoxic peptide. Such an approach has led to the identification of a complex intracellular mechanism that can be regulated by neurotransmitters and other ligands.

Theoretical basis for the benefit of postmenopausal estrogen substitution

Women are being presented with an increasing number of choices for health care management as they move through the aging process. Estrogen has positive effects on mood, sexual function, target end organs and cognitive function, and may play an important role in the etiology of Alzheimer's Disease by acting to prevent amyloid plaque formation, oxidative stress, or deterioration of the cholinergic neurotransmitter system. The benefits of estrogen therapy for osteoporosis, the cardiovascular system, and lipid metabolism are far reaching, but the possibility of developing breast cancer later in life is also relevant. Understanding the mechanisms for the action of the estrogens, anti-estrogens, and the selective estrogen receptor modulators, and possible alternative routes of symptom management for some menopausal events is important to make appropriate decisions on choice of therapy. This review discusses the theoretical basis for estrogen's actions in the management of the postmenopausal stage of the life cycle.

Secretion of protease nexin-II/amyloid beta protein precursor by human colorectal carcinoma cells and its modulation by cytokines/growth factors and proteinase inhibitors

Trypsin inhibitors secreted by human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell lines were analyzed by reverse zymography. Among eleven cell lines analyzed, the major inhibitor secreted was protease nexin-II (PN-II), a secreted form of amyloid beta protein precursor (APP) containing a Kunitz-type serine proteinase inhibitor domain. Expression of the APP gene was also confirmed in the cell lines and the main APP mRNA species were PN-II types. The APP gene expression was constant during cell growth in vitro. On the other hand, the rate of extracellular PN-II accumulation markedly increased after long-term serum-free maintenance of the confluent culture. The extracellular accumulation of PN-II was also strongly stimulated either by interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) treatment or to a lesser extent by basic fibroblast growth factor, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, hepatocyte growth factor or epidermal growth factor. Neither serum depletion- nor IL-1beta-induced stimulation of extracellular PN-II accumulation were accompanied by obvious alteration of the levels of APP mRNA and cellular APP holoprotein, suggesting that the enhanced extracellular accumulation of PN-II might result from up-regulation of the secretory pathway of APP. The IL-1beta-induced PN-II secretion was significantly inhibited by relatively high concentrations (50-200 microg/ml) of aprotinin, a serine proteinase inhibitor, in a dose-dependent manner without obvious cell-toxic effects.

Death of PC12 cells and hippocampal neurons induced by adenoviral-mediated FAD human amyloid precursor protein gene expression

We used adenoviral-mediated gene transfer of human amyloid precursor proteins (h-APPs) to evaluate the role of various h-APPs in causing neuronal cell death. We were able to infect PC12 cells with very high efficiency because approximately 90% of the cells were cytochemically positive for beta-galactosidase activity when an adenoviral vector containing LacZ cDNA was used to infect cells. Cells infected with adenovirus containing h-APP cDNA showed high-level transcription and expression of h-APP as measured by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and Western immunoblot analyses, respectively. Intracellular and extracellular levels of h-APP were elevated approximately 17-and 24-fold in cultures infected with recombinant adenovirus containing wild-type mutant and 13- and 17-fold with V642F mutant. No elevation in h-APP was seen in cultures infected with antisense h-APP or null adenovirus. H-APP levels were maximal 3 days after infection. Overexpression of V642F mutant h-APP in PC12 cells and hippocampal neurons resulted in about a twofold increase in death compared with overexpression of wild-type h-APP. These results demonstrate the usefulness of recombinant adenoviral mediated gene transfer in cell culture studies and suggest that overexpression of a familial Alzheimer's disease mutant APP may be toxic to neuronal cells.

Regulation of amyloid precursor protein cleavage

Multiple lines of evidence suggest that increased production and/or deposition of the beta-amyloid peptide, derived from the amyloid precursor protein, contributes to Alzheimer's disease. A growing list of neurotransmitters, growth factors, cytokines, and hormones have been shown to regulate amyloid precursor protein processing. Although traditionally thought to be mediated by activation of protein kinase C, recent data have implicated other signaling mechanisms in the regulation of this process. Moreover, novel mechanisms of regulation involving cholesterol-, apolipoprotein E-, and stress-activated pathways have been identified. As the phenotypic changes associated with Alzheimer's disease encompass many of these signaling systems, it is relevant to determine how altered cell signaling may be contributing to increasing brain amyloid burden. We review the myriad ways in which first messengers regulate amyloid precursor protein catabolism as well as the signal transduction cascades that give rise to these effects.