Abnormal mitochondrial dynamics--a novel therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease?

Mol Neurobiol. 2010 Jun;41(2-3):87-96. doi: 10.1007/s12035-009-8095-7. Epub 2010 Jan 27.

Abstract

Mitochondria are dynamic organelles that undergo continuous fission and fusion, which could affect all aspects of mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been well documented in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the past few years, emerging evidence indicates that an imbalance of mitochondrial dynamics is involved in the pathogenesis of AD. In this review, we discuss in detail the abnormal mitochondrial dynamics in AD and how such abnormal dynamics may impact mitochondrial and neuronal function and contribute to the course of disease. Based on this discussion, we propose that mitochondrial dynamics could be a potential therapeutic target for AD.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / physiopathology*
  • Alzheimer Disease / therapy*
  • Animals
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use
  • Apolipoprotein E4 / metabolism
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Humans
  • Indoles / pharmacology
  • Indoles / therapeutic use
  • Mitochondria / drug effects
  • Mitochondria / metabolism*
  • Mitochondria / pathology
  • Neurons / cytology*
  • Neurons / metabolism*
  • Neurons / pathology
  • Presenilins / metabolism
  • tau Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Apolipoprotein E4
  • Indoles
  • Presenilins
  • tau Proteins
  • latrepirdine