The Structure and Function of Alzheimer's Gamma Secretase Enzyme Complex
Document Type
Journal Article
Publisher
Informa Healthcare
Faculty
Faculty of Computing, Health and Science
School
School of Exercise, Biomedical and Health Science / Centre of Excellence in Alzheimer’s Disease Research
RAS ID
8892
Abstract
The production and accumulation of the beta amyloid protein (Aβ) is a key event in the cascade of oxidative and inflammatory processes that characterizes Alzheimer’s disease (AD). A multi-subunit enzyme complex, referred to as gamma (γ) secretase, plays a pivotal role in the generation of Aβ from its parent molecule, the amyloid precursor protein (APP). Four core components (presenilin, nicastrin, aph-1, and pen-2) interact in a high-molecular-weight complex to perform intramembrane proteolysis on a number of membrane-bound proteins, including APP and Notch. Inhibitors and modulators of this enzyme have been assessed for their therapeutic benefit in AD. However, although these agents reduce Aβ levels, the majority have been shown to have severe side effects in pre-clinical animal studies, most likely due to the enzymes role in processing other proteins involved in normal cellular function. Current research is directed at understanding this enzyme and, in particular, at elucidating the roles that each of the core proteins plays in its function. In addition, a number of interacting proteins that are not components of γ-secretase also appear to play important roles in modulating enzyme activity. This review will discuss the structural and functional complexity of the γ-secretase enzyme and the effects of inhibiting its activity.
DOI
10.3109/10408360903335821
Comments
Krishnaswamy, S. , Verdile, G. , Groth, D. , Kanyenda, L. , & Martins, R. N. (2009). The structure and function of Alzheimer's gamma secretase enzyme complex. Critical Reviews in Clinical Laboratory Sciences, 46(5-6), 282-301. Available here