Somatostatin therapy, neprilysin activation, and amyloid beta reduction: A novel approach for Alzheimer's treatment.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Neprilysin is the primary enzyme responsible for the degradation of amyloid beta (Aβ), with its levels regulated by the hormone somatostatin (SST). METHODS: We have developed a novel treatment mechanism for Alzheimer's disease (AD) by combining SST with a blood-brain barrier (BBB) transporter and a Fc fragment to extend its half-life. This treatment was tested in a murine AD model overexpressing amyloid precursor protein (APP) with the Arctic mutation in Aβ (APP). RESULTS: Our findings demonstrate a significant increase in neprilysin levels, which correlates with a reduction in various forms of Aβ, including membrane-bound and intracellular Aβ aggregates, as well as Aβ42 in insoluble aggregates. DISCUSSION: These results suggest that neprilysin can effectively degrade Aβ with the Arctic mutation. Additionally, this treatment strategy successfully reduces both oligomeric and larger Aβ, aggregates, a challenge for other therapeutic approaches. This novel strategy holds promise as a potential therapeutic approach for AD.