Amyloid β-peptide and oxidative cellular injury in Alzheimer’s disease

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Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects primarily learning and memory functions. There is significant neuronal loss and impairment of metabolic functioning in the temporal lobe, an area believed to be crucial for learning and memory tasks. Aggregated deposits of amyloid β-peptide may have a causative role in the development and progression of AD. We review the cellular actions of Aβ and how they can contribute to the cytotoxicity observed in AD. Aβ causes plasma membrane lipid peroxidation, impairment of ionmotive ATPases, glutamate uptake, uncoupling of a G-protein linked receptor, and generation of reactive oxygen species. These effects contribute to the loss of intracellular calcium homeostasis reported in cultured neurons. Many cell types other than neurons show alterations in the Alzheimer’s brain. The effects of Aβ on these cell types is also reviewed.