Aβ oligomer-induced synapse degeneration in Alzheimer's disease

Cell Mol Neurobiol. 2011 Aug;31(6):939-48. doi: 10.1007/s10571-011-9691-4. Epub 2011 May 3.

Abstract

Aβ oligomers cause a collection of molecular events associated with memory loss in Alzheimer's disease, centering on disrupting the maintenance of synapse structure and function. In this brief review of the synaptotoxic effects of Aβ oligomers, we focus on the neuronal properties governing oligomer targeting and toxicity-especially with respect to binding sites and mechanisms of binding. We also discuss ways in which mechanistic insights from other diseases offer clues in the pursuit of the molecular basis of Alzheimer's disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / complications*
  • Alzheimer Disease / pathology
  • Alzheimer Disease / physiopathology
  • Amyloid beta-Peptides / chemistry*
  • Amyloid beta-Peptides / toxicity*
  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Memory / drug effects
  • Nerve Degeneration / complications*
  • Nerve Degeneration / physiopathology
  • Protein Structure, Quaternary
  • Synapses / drug effects
  • Synapses / pathology*

Substances

  • Amyloid beta-Peptides