MITOABETA · Investigation of Beta-Amyloid Peptide Effects On Mitochondria Protein Homeostasis: From Pathogenesis to Therapy of Alzheimer Disease

Beta-amyloid peptide, a component of senile plaques and generated by proteolytic cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein (APP), is a key factor in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease (AD). Beta-amyloid peptide has been shown to influence negatively some important mitochondrial activities such as reducing the efficiency of ATP-production via oxidative phosphorylation, enhancing mitochondrial ROS generation, and subsequently altering mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis. Based on these observations, it has been well established that mitochondrial dysfunctions and oxidative stress play an important role in the early pathology of Alzheimer disease. However, the molecular mechanisms linking beta-amyloid peptide to mitochondrial defects and to an increased oxidative stress leading to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer disease remain largely unknown.The main general goal of the proposed project is to assess the molecular impact of an increased accumulation of beta-amyloid peptide on mitochondrial protein homeostasis. The data collected from this project may provide crucial insights into AD etiology and pathogenesis.Specifically the following aspects will be determined:i)Effects on mitochondrial protein biogenesis: import and folding of nuclear encoded proteins, endogenous protein biosynthesis and complex assembly