Presenilin 1 modifies lipid raft composition of neuronal membranes.
Protein-lipid interactions in the nervous system may provide insight into the causes of neurological disorders. In this study, we elucidated if expression of human presenilin 1 (PS1) in a mouse model changes the physico-chemical properties of brain membranes. PS1 is a multifunctional transmembrane protein and part of the gamma-secretase complex. This complex is critical for the production of the Alzheimer related amyloid beta peptide. Brain membranes isolated from mice expressing a human wild-type PS1 transgene are less fluid and contain higher cholesterol and sphingomyelin levels. Moreover, our data reveal significant changes in membrane micro-domains and indicate that PS1 induces the formation of lipid rafts.
Eckert
Gunter P
GP
Department of Pharmacology, ZAFES, Campus Riedberg, Biocenter Niederursel, University of Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany. G.P.Eckert@em.uni-frankfurt.de
Müller
Walter E
WE
D000818:Animals; D001921:Brain / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D021962:Membrane Microdomains / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism*; D051379:Mice; D008822:Mice, Transgenic; D009474:Neurons / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism*; D053764:Presenilin-1 / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*
C508853:PSEN1 protein, human; D053764:Presenilin-1