Identification and neuron specific expression of the S182/presenilin I protein in human and rodent brains

摘要: Many individuals with familial Alzheimer disease (FAD) have mutations in a gene termed S182 or presenilin I (PS-I). Currently, the PS-I product has not been identified and its function remains unknown. Here we report that affinity purified antibodies against predicted amino acid sequence of detected homogenates human, mouse, rat brains single antigen approximately 48 kDa. This was also present immortalized human mouse neuronal cell cultures. Brain tissue fractionation showed all found membrane fraction. In stained sections central nervous system (CNS), only neurons throughout brain spinal cord located within bodies, axons, dendrites. Remarkably relative partition among these three compartments varied dramatically. A striking feature expression intense concentration some (but all) dendrites, at levels substantially above those parent perikarya. most cerebrum, staining axons very weak undetectable. By contrast, many portions brainstem marked immunoreactivity. Similarly, from temporal cortex mainly bodies These data show CNS, is expressed suggests this protein may perform neuron specific function. The pattern CNS would suggest premature neurodegeneration associated involves primary process rather than secondary effect produced non-neuronal cells. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.