Scientists Developed a Protein to Boost Memory
Neuroscientists from the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery at the Catholic University in Rome, along with the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, have genetically altered the brain-active molecule LIMK1, crucial for memory. They introduced a “molecular switch” activated by the drug rapamycin, recognized for its various anti-aging effects on the brain.
Joint research with substantial consequences
However, the findings are from a research paper in Science Advances, a collaboration between the Catholic University in Rome and the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS. The study, led by Claudio Grassi, a Full Professor of Physiology and Director of the Department of Neuroscience, is backed by the Italian Ministry of Education, University and Research, the American Alzheimer’s Association Foundation, and the Italian Ministry of Health. This research holds significant promise in advancing our knowledge of memory function and aiding the development of novel approaches for neuropsychiatric disorders such as dementia.
The Function of LIMK1 in Memory Processes
LIMK1 protein is essential in determining the structural alterations in neurons, specifically the development of dendritic spines. These spines enhance the transmission of information in neural networks and are pivotal in learning and memory processes.
Professor Claudio Grassi, the study’s senior author, elucidates, “Memory is an intricate process that encompasses modifications in synapses, the connections between neurons, particularly in specific brain regions like the hippocampus, which plays a vital role in memory formation.
Professor Grassi elaborates further, stating that synaptic plasticity, involving alterations in the structure and function of synapses triggered by the activation of neural circuits, occurs during experiences like sensory stimuli. These experiences initiate complex signaling pathways that engage numerous proteins. Some of these proteins play a crucial role in memory, and reduced expression or modifications in these proteins are associated with changes in cognitive functions. LIMK1 is one such crucial protein. Our study aimed to regulate the activity of this protein, given its pivotal role in dendritic spine maturation between neurons. Professor Grassi underscores that controlling LIMK1 with a drug offers the potential to promote synaptic plasticity and, consequently, the physiological processes dependent on it.”
Chemogenetic Strategy: A Fresh Approach to Enhancing Memory
Cristian Ripoli, Associate Professor of Physiology at the Catholic University and the study’s first author, explains, “The innovative ‘chemogenetic’ strategy, which integrates genetics and chemistry, hinges on the use of rapamycin. This immunosuppressive drug, known for extending life expectancy and its positive effects on the brain in preclinical models, is integral to this approach.“
Professor Ripoli underscores, “We altered the LIMK1 protein sequence by integrating a molecular switch, allowing us to activate it at will by administering rapamycin.”
“In animals experiencing age-related cognitive decline, employing this gene therapy to alter the LIMK1 protein and activate it with the drug resulted in significant memory improvement. This method allows us to manipulate synaptic plasticity processes and memory under both physiological and pathological conditions. Moreover, it opens the door to the development of additional ‘engineered’ proteins that could revolutionize research and therapy in the field of neurology,” the expert highlights.
The subsequent stage entails evaluating the efficacy of this treatment in experimental models of neurodegenerative disorders marked by memory impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Further studies are also required to validate the application of this technology in humans,” Professor Grassi concludes.
Read the original article on: ScitechDaily
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