Cell Channel Plays Role in Alzheimers

Ivanhoe Newswire

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(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Scientists recently found a cell mechanism to be one of the culprits in an Alzheimers disease (AD) abnormality.

Although previous research has linked abnormal levels of calcium in the brain to AD, a recent study uncovered the role of an intracellular calcium release channel called inositol trisphosphate receptor (InsP3R) in raising these levels. Researchers found interactions of this channel with mutated presenilins (PS), enzymes linked to AD, boosted calcium responses in cells. Researchers say this link provides exciting molecular insights into the pathology of AD and may lead to new treatment strategies.

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Calcium plays an important role in many aspects of brain physiology including growth, learning and memory, cell death and cell regeneration.

More than 18 million people worldwide suffer from AD.

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SOURCE: Neuron, 2008;59:871-883

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