Alzheimer

Question 1

How is GPR3 connected to Alzheimer’s disease?

Answer 1

GPR3 has no known ligand and was discovered oocytes where it inhibits meiosis. Later studies showed expression in most brain cells especially those subject to amyloid deposition. Overexpression results in increased amyloid beta production due to increased surface gamma-secretase complex localization, and null mice are spared.
GPR3 (G Protein Receptor 3)

Question 2

What treatments have proved to be effective in Alzheimer’s disease?

Answer 2

idalopirdine a 50HT6 antagonist, 90 mg per day (30 mg thrice daily (278)) or placebo (145), serious side effects 10% in both groups.At week 24, the change from baseline in ADAS-cog total score was +1·38 (SD 0·53) in the placebo group and -0·77 (0·55) in the idalopirdine group (treatment difference of -2·16 points, 95% CI -3·62 to -0·69; p=0·0040).

Question 3

What evidence suggests a fungal etiology?

Answer 3

Fungal epitopes can be demonstrated in Alzheimer but not control brains, often at cell membranes but also perinucular. Fungal DNA also demonstrated by PCR.

PMID: 26468932