Membrane dynamics, cholesterol homeostasis, and Alzheimer's disease

J Lipid Res. 2003 Nov;44(11):2019-29. doi: 10.1194/jlr.R300010-JLR200. Epub 2003 Sep 1.

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the deposition of beta-amyloid (A beta) plaques derived from the amyloidogenic processing; of a transmembrane protein called beta-amyloid precursor protein (APP). In addition to the known genetic/sporadic factors that promote the formation of A beta, the composition and structural dynamics of the membrane are also thought to play a significant role in the amyloidogenic processing of APP that promotes seeding of A beta. This minireview reinforces the roles played by membrane dynamics, membrane microdomains, and cholesterol homeostasis in relation to amyloidogenesis, and reviews current strategies of lowering cholesterol in treating AD.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / metabolism*
  • Alzheimer Disease / pathology
  • Amyloid beta-Peptides / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Apolipoproteins E / genetics
  • Apolipoproteins E / metabolism
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism*
  • Cholesterol / metabolism*
  • Homeostasis*
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / pharmacology

Substances

  • Amyloid beta-Peptides
  • Apolipoproteins E
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
  • Cholesterol