动物造模 z-bio 2021-09-28 429

　　The magic "Dkk1 protein" can destroy Wnt protein

　　Wnt is a secreted glycoprotein that acts through autocrine or paracrine. The Wnt signaling pathway can cause the accumulation of the multifunctional protein β-catenin (β-catenin) in cells, interact with cadherin at cell junctions, and participate in the formation of adhesions. Free β-catenin regulates gene expression and can enter the cell. nuclear.

　　Researchers are looking for a protein called Dkk1 that can block the activity of Wnt protein. In this experiment, the researchers activated Dkk1 and destroyed the Wnt protein in mice.

　　In order to prevent these damages from affecting the normal brain development caused by Wnt protein and Dkk1, the researchers found that the brain regions involved in the formation of new memories in the adult mice activate Dkk1 and turn on Dkk1, which shows that the mice have memory defects and synapses between neurons. A corresponding decrease indicates a loss of communication.

　　But interestingly, when the researchers turned off Dkk1, their mice had no memory problems, the number of synapses increased to normal levels, and brain pathways were restored.

　　Wnt protein plays an important role in maintaining neural connections in the adult brain

　　This research also plays an important role in maintaining the neural connections in the adult brain. We found that the levels in the brains of Alzheimer's patients are higher.

　　University College London Patricia Salinas project research leader and professor said that nerve cells are connected to each other through communication points called synapses, and the slow deterioration of these connections has been the focus of research. I did it. Synapses are very important to all human brains. Once lost, nerve cells cannot exchange information, causing memory and thinking problems. The Wnt pathway is very important in regulating synaptic structure, repair and function. There is evidence that Wnt protein is also important for memory.

　　He also said that the next step is to understand the role of Wnt protein in Alzheimer's disease, which can prevent and reverse the connection and communication barriers of brain nerve cells in patients with Alzheimer's disease. This is a major improvement. It is said.

　　This research can be used to find new targets for preventing and repairing brain function, and to develop drugs for these targets. This helps scientists develop new treatments for neuropathy.