Memory and ProBDNF Processing in the Aged Mouse Hippocampus

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DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Aging-associated cognitive decline is a frequent condition among individuals aged 60 and over, with prevalence estimated at 20-27%, and is of high use for the identification of preclinical stages of dementia. Deficits in memory tasks are often related to dysfunctions of the hippocampus and cholinergic neurons projecting to the hippocampus and cortex. While present therapies for neurodegeneration and cognitive deficits are focused on neuroprotection from oxidative stress and supporting acetylcholine neurotransmission, this project proposes a change of paradigm towards proteolytic processing of pro-neurotrophins. The balance between neurotrophins and their precursors regulates critically important processes in developing and adult brains, including neuronal survival, synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity, and may play important roles in preventing aging-related degeneration. We will study the role of proBDNF in hippocampal neuron dysfunctions underlying aging-related memory impairment using a multilevel approach: behavioral, pharmacological, biochemical and neuroanatomical. We will investigate proBDNF processing in the aged versus young mouse hippocampus, and we will evaluate correlations between BDNF signaling and memory deficits in a behavioral task. We will also pharmacologically manipulate proBDNF processing in order to improve memory performance in aged animals. Should this study be successful, it would impact future therapies aimed at preserving memory performance in aged individuals by identifying a new set of molecular pathways to be targeted by therapy. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Aging-associated cognitive decline is a frequent condition among individuals aged 60 and over, with prevalence estimated at 20-27%, and is of high use for the identification of preclinical stages of dementia. Deficits in memory tasks are often related to dysfunctions of the hippocampus and cholinergic neurons projecting to the hippocampus and cortex. Our studies will investigate a molecular pathway to be targeted by future therapies aimed at preserving memory performance in aged individuals.