The Alzheimer's disease-associated amyloid beta-protein is an antimicrobial peptide.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The amyloid beta-protein (Abeta) is believed to be the key mediator of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. Abeta is most often characterized as an incidental catabolic byproduct that lacks a normal physiological role. However, Abeta has been shown to be a specific ligand for a number of different receptors and other molecules, transported by complex trafficking pathways, modulated in response to a variety of environmental stressors, and able to induce pro-inflammatory activities.

Methodology/principal findings

Here, we provide data supporting an in vivo function for Abeta as an antimicrobial peptide (AMP). Experiments used established in vitro assays to compare antimicrobial activities of Abeta and LL-37, an archetypical human AMP. Findings reveal that Abeta exert

SUBMITTER: Soscia SJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2831066 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature