Presenilins and the gamma-secretase: still a complex problem

Mol Brain. 2010 Feb 5:3:7. doi: 10.1186/1756-6606-3-7.

Abstract

The presenilins form part of a complex of membrane proteins that are involved in the proteolytic cleavage of cell-surface molecules. This article reviews the history of the discovery of the presenilins, their role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease and in the metabolism of the amyloid-beta precursor protein. Unanswered questions about their biochemical mechanism of action and their effects on Ca2+ homeostasis are examined.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / etiology
  • Alzheimer Disease / genetics
  • Alzheimer Disease / pathology*
  • Alzheimer Disease / physiopathology*
  • Amyloid Precursor Protein Secretases / genetics
  • Amyloid Precursor Protein Secretases / metabolism*
  • Amyloid beta-Protein Precursor / genetics
  • Amyloid beta-Protein Precursor / metabolism*
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Mutation
  • Presenilins / genetics
  • Presenilins / metabolism*

Substances

  • Amyloid beta-Protein Precursor
  • Presenilins
  • Amyloid Precursor Protein Secretases
  • Calcium