Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia worldwide, characterized by progressive memory impairment, behavioral changes, and, ultimately, loss of consciousness and death. Recently, microRNA (miRNA) dysfunction has been associated with increased production and impaired clearance of amyloid-b (Ab) peptides, whose accumulation is one of the most well-known pathophysiological markers of this disease. In this study, we identified several miRNAs capable of targeting key proteins of the amyloidogenic pathway. The expression of one of these miRNAs, miR-31, previously found to be decreased in AD patients, was able to simultaneously reduce the levels of APP and Bace1 mRNA in the hippocampus of 17-month-old AD triple-transgenic (3xTg-AD) female mice, leading to a significant improvement of memory deficits and a reduction in anxiety and cognitive inflexibility. In addition, lentiviral-mediated miR-31 expression significantly ameliorated AD neuropathology in this model, drastically reducing Ab deposition in both the hippocampus and subiculum. Furthermore, the increase of miR-31 levels was enough to reduce the accumulation of glutamate vesicles in the hippocampus to levels found in non-transgenic age-matched animals. Overall, our results suggest that miR-31-mediated modulation of APP and BACE1 can become a therapeutic option in the treatment of AD.
Sleep is a fundamental function of the human body and it is crucial for our well-being and health. Most people are not aware of the importance of sleep. Only few adopt good sleep habits and sleep enough hours. This can lead to several consequences, such as problems with attention and memory and the development of diseases. Each one of us has an internal rhythm that changes as we develop. Respecting the number of hours of sleep needed by our bodies is crucial. The practice of good sleep habits can help us have a good night’s sleep. However, some sleep problems can be more difficult to treat and a sleep specialist might be necessary to evaluate the situation and provide the appropriate treatment. Understanding sleep and recognizing its importance will help you to sleep better and, ultimately, to have a healthy life.
Brain Buskers is an initiative developed by the University of Coimbra in Portugal. The project aims to join science with the daily and cultural life of the city in order to engage local communities. Its informal nature promotes the understanding of biochemistry in everyday life, demystifying the image of scientists and increasing scientific literacy. The project has also helped to inspire scientists with the skills and confidence to hold and inspire a passing audience with science.
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