beta-Amyloid neurotoxicity.
beta-amyloid (beta A, 39-43 amino acids) deposition in brain parenchyma and vessel walls is a major pathological feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). This is associated with degenerative changes of neuronal cell bodies and processes, and neuronal death. beta A, a portion of a larger transmembrane glycoprotein, has been reported to be toxic in several tissue culture models. The neurotoxic activity of beta A synthetic peptides is associated with their fibrillogenic capacity. However, in vivo studies on beta A neurotoxic activity have not proved conclusive and further investigations are necessary to establish the pathogenetic role of beta A in AD.
Forloni
G
G
Neurobiology of Alzheimer Unit, Mario Negri, Institute of Pharmacological Research, Milan, Italy.
D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000473:pathology*; D016229:Amyloid beta-Peptides / Q000502:physiology*; D000686:Amyloidosis / Q000473:pathology*; D000818:Animals; D017209:Apoptosis / Q000502:physiology*; D001921:Brain / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D016874:Neurofibrillary Tangles / Q000473:pathology; D009474:Neurons / Q000473:pathology
D016229:Amyloid beta-Peptides