Gelsolin as therapeutic target in Alzheimer's disease

Importance of the field: Fibrillar amyloid beta-protein (Ab) is a major component of amyloid plaques in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, a comprehensive explanation of the mechanisms leading to brain amyloidosis is still pending. Previous studies have identified the anti-amyloidogenic role of gelsolin in AD. Gelsolin can reduce amyloid burden by acting as an inhibitor of A beta fibrillization, and as an antioxidant and anti-apoptotic protein. Areas covered in this review: Recent evidence indicates reduced brain gelsolin levels in AD. Therefore, a better understanding of the roles of gelsolin in AD pathology, particularly those related with cognition, is required. What the reader will gain: Most of the information reviewed here relates to experimental studies. However, gelsolin may progress from the present evidence to preclinical and clinical applications. In addition, a greater insight into the environmental factors contributing to abnormally reduced gelsolin function in AD brains may become crucial for the development of much needed disease-modifying strategies. Take home message: Because, the efficacy of available medicines is still poor, there is an urgent need for novel AD treatments. In this sense, gelsolin could play an important role.