α7 nicotinic ACh receptors are necessary for memory recovery and neuroprotection promoted by attention training in amyloid-β-infused mice.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Attention training reverses the neurodegeneration and memory loss promoted by infusion of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide in rats and increases the density of α7 nicotinic ACh receptors (α7nAChRs) in brain areas related to memory. Hence, we aimed to assess the role of α7nAChRs in the memory recovery promoted by attention training.

Experimental approach

C57Bl/6 mice were chronically infused with Aβ, Aβ plus the α7 antagonist methyllycaconitine (MLA), or MLA alone. Control animals were infused with vehicle. Animals were subjected weekly to the active avoidance shuttle box for 4 weeks (attention training). The brain and serum were collected for biochemical and histological analysis.

Key results

Aβ caused cognitive impairment, which was reversed by the weekl

SUBMITTER: Telles-Longui M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6692581 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature