Presenilin 1 modifies lipid raft composition of neuronal membranes

Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2009 May 15;382(4):673-7. doi: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2009.03.070. Epub 2009 Mar 16.

Abstract

Protein-lipid interactions in the nervous system may provide insight into the causes of neurological disorders. In this study, we elucidated if expression of human presenilin 1 (PS1) in a mouse model changes the physico-chemical properties of brain membranes. PS1 is a multifunctional transmembrane protein and part of the gamma-secretase complex. This complex is critical for the production of the Alzheimer related amyloid beta peptide. Brain membranes isolated from mice expressing a human wild-type PS1 transgene are less fluid and contain higher cholesterol and sphingomyelin levels. Moreover, our data reveal significant changes in membrane micro-domains and indicate that PS1 induces the formation of lipid rafts.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Membrane Microdomains / chemistry
  • Membrane Microdomains / metabolism*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Transgenic
  • Neurons / chemistry
  • Neurons / metabolism*
  • Presenilin-1 / genetics
  • Presenilin-1 / metabolism*

Substances

  • PSEN1 protein, human
  • Presenilin-1