The amyloid beta ion channel hypothesis of Alzheimer’s disease

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a leading cause of chronic dementia in the US. Its incidence is increasing with an attendant increase in associated health care costs. Since its first description in a patient by Dr. Alois Alzheimer over a century ago, a large body of biomedical literature has established a detailed clinical and molecular profile of this disorder. Amyloid β peptide (Aβ; a 39–42 amino acid molecule) is the major component of senile plaques, the lesions that are one of the pathologic hallmarks of AD (Wong et al 1985). Although many aspects of the biology of amyloid β have been investigated, several fundamental questions about how this peptide causes AD neuropathology remain unanswered. The key question is: How is Aβ toxic to cerebral neurons? Because plaques are extra-neuronal deposits, it is difficult to imagine a structural basis for their toxicity. As an interesting contrast the other pathognomonic feature of AD, neurofibrillary tangles, are intra-axonal structural anomalies that are composed of the hyperphosphorylated microtubule associated (MAP) protein, tau. This review will assess the current thinking that relates to a recent hypothesis of Aβ toxicity. In 1992, Hardy and Higgins reported findings that suggested a new and intriguing possibility. These authors found that Aβ peptides disrupt Ca²⁺ homeostasis in neurons and increase intracellular Ca²⁺ [Ca²⁺]_i. This was corroborated by Mattson and his colleagues who demonstrated that Aβ exposure to human cortical neurons raised [Ca2⁺]_i (Mattson, Cheng et al 1992); (Hardy and Higgins 1992). Finally, Nelson Arispe’s group at the NIH specifically investigated the possibility that Aβ peptides might function like Ca²⁺ ion channels (Arispe et al 1993). This and several subsequent studies have laid the foundation for a novel idea: “Aβ peptides are, in part, toxic to neurons because they form aberrant ion channels in neuronal membranes and thereby disrupt neuronal homeostasis”. In this review we shall critically examine this theory in light of classic and contemporary literature.

Keywords:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Aβ channels
• ion channel hypothesis

Introduction

Dementia of the Alzheimer’s type

Dr. Alois Alzheimer, a Bavarian psychiatrist, interviewed a patient in 1901. This was a 51 year-old woman who had declining cognitive abilities and memory. Her neurological evaluation by Alzheimer, Emil Kraeplin and others first helped define this clinicopathological syndrome of late-life mental decline. However, it was much later (in the decade of the 1960s) that the work of Tomlinson et al established Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as the most common form of senile dementia (Tomlinson et al 1968, ¹⁹⁷⁰). Today, with exponential advances in fields such as neurology, pathology, biophysics, computer modeling, molecular genetics, and immunochemistry, many aspects of AD, its etiology and underlying mechanisms have been discovered. However, a robust scientific debate still continues about the fundamental mechanistic details of the disorder. It’s not surprising therefore, that a cure has not yet been discovered, even in the face of an increasing health care burden and near epidemic proportions of the epidemiology of the disease in the United States and across the western hemisphere.

Amyloid β metabolism

How Aβ accumulates in the brain is a complex narrative. Briefly, a locus on the human chromosome 21 (21q21.3) encodes a transmembrane glycoprotein called APP (Amyloid Precursor Protein). This 695–770 amino acid peptide does not have an established physiological function. As a consequence of metabolic processing, this molecule can generate both amyloidogenic (ie, having a propensity to produce Aβ) and non-amyloidogenic products (Fraser et al 1997). If APP is proteolytically cleaved by the enzyme α-secretase, the neuroprotective fragment sAPPα (for secreted APPα) is produced and Aβ formation is prevented (Pearson and Peers 2006). In contrast, if sequential cleavage by β- and then γ-secretases predominates, Aβ is formed. β- and γ-secretase cleavages are constitutive events in that Aβ is detectable in the pico-to-nanomolar range in normal brains (Haass et al 1992; Seubert et al 1993; Wilson et al 1999). However, relatively recent research has shown that β-secretase has optimal activity at a pH of ~4.0 (Lin et al 2000). The enzyme is usually located on the cell surface where the ambient pH is much higher (~7) forcing it to remain dormant (Lin et al 2000; He et al 2007). The proteolysis of APP by β-secretase necessitates internalization of both molecules through an endocytic mechanism into lysosomes. Here, at more optimal pH, β-secretase then cleaves APP and these intracellular sites become the major locations for the production of Aβ (Koo and Squazzo 1994; Cook et al 1997; Hartmann et al 1997). Specifically, APP proteolysis following internalization occurs in:

1. The Endoplasmic Reticulum: This is the major site of Aβ_1–42 synthesis (Wilson et al 1999).

2. The Trans-Golgi Network: Where most of the Aβ_1–40 is generated (Wilson et al 1999).

3. The Endosomal/Lysosomal system: This contributes only minor amounts of Aβ (Wilson et al 1999).

There may be two distinct fates of secreted Aβ peptides. Indirect evidence suggests that in the normal brain these peptides are cleared from the extracellular space. In humans who inherit the Apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4) allele (and this is known to increase their risk of developing AD), there is no apparent increase in Aβ production (eg, plasma Aβ levels in these subjects remain normal). However, in human neuropathological studies as well as mouse models, inheritance of ApoE4 causes a rise in the steady state levels of Aβ in the brain. This either happens by an enhancement of the fibrillogenic potential or be decreasing the clearance of Aβ (Selkoe 2001).

Metabolic labeling studies have also demonstrated that newly formed Aβ is rapidly turned over in the brain and that Aβ-degrading proteases help regulate its levels in the brain (Savage et al 1998). These enzymes are largely serine or metalloproteases and include insulin degrading enzyme (IDE), neprilysin (NEP), plasmin, plasminogen activator (uPA/tPA), endothelin enzyme-1 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) (Selkoe 2001).

Reports have suggested that their may be two distinct pools of Aβ. The intracellular pool remains unsecreted and is possibly degraded while the secreted pool, via the Golgi and post-Golgi vesicles and the Endosomal/Lysosomal system is secreted and this fraction is destined to contribute to the formation of senile plaques in the brains of AD patients. The peculiarities of the aging brain that predispose neurons in general to this fate of Aβ and to specific populations within the cortex, are not well understood and might hold the key to the overarching causality of AD (Wild-Bode et al 1997; Wilson et al 1999). Figures 1, 2 and 3 schematically summarize APP metabolism, Aβ synthesis and the ultimate fates of these peptides.

Figure 1 APP proteolytic processing and major fates of the amyloid β (Aβ) fragment. Sequential cleavage by β-secretase (BACE-1) followed by γ-secretase [containing Presenilin 1 and 2 (PS1/2)] generates Aβ. This fragment has several fates. (a) It can aggregate and accumulate as extraneuronal plaques which characterize Alzheimer’s dementia. (b) It can be cleared from the extracellular space (a mechanism that may be altered in AD brains). (c) It can be degraded by a variety of proteases such as Insulin Degrading Enzyme (IDE), Neprilyisn (NEP), Plasmin, Plasminogen Activator (uPA/tPA), Endothelin Enzyme-1 or Matrix Metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9). Hypothetically, at least, it might return to the plasma membrane and insert in oligomer form as an ion channel. γ-secretase cleavage is also thought to liberate an intracellular domain (AICD) which may influence gene transcription.

Figure 2 Sequential cleavage by β-secretase and γ-secretase releases Aβ fragment of varying length. β-secretase cleavage has to occur following internalization of APP-enzyme complex at pH values around 4.0 in cytosolic locations.

Figure 3 APP internalization and generation of Aβ. APP is trafficked through constitutive secretory pathways, undergoes post-translational modification and ultimately locates to the plasma membrane. Poorly understood mechanisms/signals then effect internalization/endocytosis of APP to intracellular sites where optimum pH exists for activation of is β-secretase (BACE-1) that process APP.

Aside from senile plaques, the other characteristic lesions of AD are neurofibrillary tangles which are intra-cellular structures composed of hyperphosphorylated tau protein. The ongoing debate in AD research is the connection between these neuron-associated anomalies and the ultimate emergence of the Alzheimer’s clinical syndrome (Blessed et al 1968; Neve et al 1990; Katzman and Saitoh 1991). Amyloid plaques are not simple structures composed of a single molecular population (ie, Amyloid β). In fact, a variety of substances have been found in these lesions. These include:

1. Proteoglycans, including heparan, chondroitin, keratin and dermatan sulphate proteoglycans.

2. Inflammatory molecules, including acute phase proteins, cytokines, chemokines, complement proteins, complement inhibitor.

3. Serum related molecules, including amyloid P component.

4. Metal ions, including Fe, Cu, Zn.

5. Amyloidogenic related molecules, including non-Aβ component of AD amyloid (NAC) that represents about 10% of the non-SDS-soluble material in amyloid plaques. Apolipoprotein E, low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein], cystatin-C (gamma-trace peptide).

6. Protease and clearance related elements, including α₁-antichymotrypsin, α₁-trypsin, lysosomal proteinases, ubiquitin, α₂-macroglobulin.

7. Antioxidant defense proteins, including ferritin, ceru-loplasmin, SOD-1 and SOD-2, HO-1 and possibly catalase.

8. Cholinesterases, including acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase.

9. Other proteins, including the multifunctional clusterin (Apo-J, SP-40).

[For an excellent and very comprehensive overview of plaque composition and chemistry, see Atwood and Martins (2002)].

This classical description of AD pathogenesis (the “amyloid hypothesis of AD”) has certain important caveats. Data has shown that the mature aggregated form of Aβ (amyloid fibrils) which are observed in cortical areas of AD patients, may not be the direct causative agents of neuronal degeneration and death (Eliezer 2006). In fact, typical amyloid deposits are absent in certain forms of AD and even when they are evident, may not be toxic or even help in cell survival (Tompkins and Hill 1997; Arrasate et al 2004). This deviation from conventional wisdom has, in part, led to the emergence of an alternative theory which is sometimes referred to as the “oligomer hypothesis of AD”. This theory posits that while mature amyloid fibrils may not themselves be toxic, some species formed during the process of fibrillar assembly might be the primary toxic entities. These molecules seem to be generated in the synthesis of amyloid fibrils and are Aβ oligomeric structures (Caughey and Lansbury 2003; Walsh and Selkoe 2004).

Physiology of Aβ peptides

Many studies suggest that Aβ might have a physiological function. In fact, Aβ peptide can be detected in human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in a variety of isotypes ranging in length from 38 to 42 amino acids. Typically, in healthy individuals, the predominant form of Aβ is Aβ_1–40 (about 90% of the total amount) while Aβ_1–42 represents approximately a 10% fraction. This ratio is dramatically altered in AD with about even representation of both isotypes (Mehta et al 2001; Plant et al 2003). Thus Aβ toxicity might represent a disturbance of normal function.

Evidence for a physiologic role

Aβ peptide appears to be involved in synaptic signaling (Pearson and Peers 2006). In 2003, Kamenetz et al reported that Aβ synthesis was increased when hippocampal neurons were activated by evoked potentials. This seemed to occur through increased APP trafficking toward β-secretase sites on the cell membrane which, in turn, increased the probability of β-secretase cleavage (Kamenetz et al 2003). In addition to increased Aβ production, other APP fragments were also liberated in greater numbers. It has been hypothesized that this scenario is a negative feedback mechanism where Aβ can (which is also known to inhibit synaptic activity) protect against unregulated signaling and consequent excitotoxicity at the synapse. In fact, Kamenetz observed that when γ-secretase activity was blocked, the frequency of excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSC) was increased. In addition, an earlier study has also shown that kainate-induced seizures are potentiated in APP-knockout mice (Steinbach et al 1998). Neuronal activity has been shown to modulate both the basal secretion of Aβ as well as the upregulated synthesis noted in genetic APP mutations (such as the Swedish mutation) that are causally linked to certain familial forms of AD. Further and somewhat indirect evidence that supports a physiologic role for Aβ, is the mechanism through which benzodiaz-epines (by enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission) and NMDA receptor antagonists (eg, Memantine) act to slow the cognitive decline of AD (Fastbom et al 1998; Winblad and Poritis 1999). More indirect evidence that supports this idea is the enhancement of Ca²⁺ and K⁺ ion channel activity that has been observed in rodent cortical neuronal cultures upon application of soluble forms of Aβ (Price et al 1998; Ramsden et al 2002). Recently it has also been reported that NMDA-receptor stimulation also upregulates APP synthesis with a concomitant increase in Aβ levels (Lesne et al 2005). As was described in a previous section, sequential cleavage of APP by β- and then γ-secretases creates Aβ fragments. The discovery that the Aβ_1–42 fragment was the major component of plaques in AD led to an interest in developing pharmaceutical inhibitors of these enzyme complexes. Some studies have alluded to the toxicity of such inhibitors. For example, Plant et al (2003) have reported that inhibition of β- or γ-secretase in neurons can compromise cell viability. These observations also support a physiological function for Aβ peptides. Indeed, in APP-knockout mice neurological and behavioral deficits are noted even though neurons can be harvested from pre-natal animals and successfully cultured suggesting that even though APP (and possibly Aβ) might have a functional role, they are not mandated for survival (Zheng et al 1995; Harper et al 1998; White et al 1998).

Because APP has so many proteolytic products, a compelling argument can be made that APP-processing is also a physiological process and that Aβ is part of this complex system. When the delicate balance of this process is disturbed, toxic forms of Aβ proliferate leading to neuronal degeneration (see below).

The toxicity of Aβ peptides

It is now widely accepted that the accumulation of Aβ in cerebral centers involved in cognition and memory is a common feature of AD pathology. These areas are mainly the temporoparietal and frontal cortices, the cingulate gyrus and hippocampus (Wenk 2003, ²⁰⁰⁶). Glenner first identified Aβ in meningovascular amyloid deposits in AD patients (Glenner and Wong 1984). Subsequently several other laboratories reported finding this peptide in senile plaques (Gorevic et al 1986; Selkoe et al 1986; Mann et al 1996) The composition of plaques is attributed largely to the Aβ_1–42 form of amyloid β (Dickson 1997; Selkoe 2001). However, which form of Aβ is most critical to AD pathogenesis remains the subject of some debate. One of the controversies is that the major component of both diffuse and senile plaques is the Aβ_1–42 form and yet this 42-amino acid fragment of APP is a quantitatively minor product of processing. In addition to Aβ_1–42, the amino terminus truncated form Aβ_x–42 is also found in plaques (Iwatsubo et al 1994; Gravina et al 1995). The heterogeneity of Aβ species is principally linked to where the fragment is terminated. Termination at amino acid 40 produces the slightly shorter Aβ_1–40, while at 42, the more amyloidogenic Aβ_1–42 is formed. In addition, variant splicing of the N-terminus produces the Aβ _x–40 and Aβ_x–42 fragments (Wild-Bode et al 1997).

These facts suggest that the central anomaly in AD might be an alteration of the ratio between the normally predominant form (Aβ_1–40) and Aβ_1–42 Aβ has intriguingly been observed not only in the classic lesions of AD but also in diffuse plaques that are recognized by amyloid antibodies but do not take on classic amyloid stains (Levites et al 2006). Other Aβ species (most prominently Aβ_1–40 and Aβ_x–40) are also present, especially in cerebrovascular amyloid deposits that are notably seen in the aging brain (Golde et al 2000). Soluble oligomers referred to as Aβ-derived diffusible ligands (ADDLs) are also capable of disturbing neuronal function in rodents and they are observed to accumulate in the brains of AD patients (Klein et al 2004; Walsh and Selkoe 2004). In contrast Aβ can be detected in human brains not affected by AD. For example, Aβ can be measured in the CSF of non-demented human subjects (Aβ_1–42) and in the media of normal neuronal cultures (isoform not identified) (Haass et al 1992; Tamaoka et al 1997). Thus, it is not merely the presence of any Aβ isoform that pushes the brain toward cognitive decline. More specifically the relative levels of Aβ_1–42 predispose to neuronal dysregulation and dementia (Younkin 1998). In addition, Aβ_1–42 has been shown to accumulate as amyloid fibrils as well as soluble intermediates more readily than Aβ_1–40 (Jarrett et al 1993; Levites et al 2006). Exogenous Aβ causes neuronal degeneration in primary cultured neurons (Yankner et al 1990). Exogenous Aβ causes the same phenomenon when injected into the brains of adult rats (Kowall et al 1991; De Ferrari et al 2003; Morgan et al 2004; Reyes et al 2004). Synthesized Aβ peptides cause both trophic and toxic changes in cultured neurons (Whitson et al 1989; Koh et al 1990; Yankner et al 1990; Mattson et al 1992; Lorenzo and Yankner 1994). Research has also suggested that Aβ might not be directly toxic itself. It may transform the neuron into becoming more susceptible to other background noxious agents. For example, these might be excitatory amino acids or free radicals (Koh et al 1990; Miranda et al 2000). Aβ’s toxicity also appears to be related to its aggregation state. Thus, aggregated forms of Aβ are toxic while solubilized (generally newly synthesized) forms are not (Pike et al 1993). Talafous has suggested that the monomeric form of Aβ (in α-helix conformation) is neurotrophic and that when this changes to the oligomeric, β-sheet conformation, the peptide becomes neurotoxic. This hypothesis needs further evaluation (Talafous et al 1994). In an interesting study, Roher and colleagues (1996) were able to quantify the proportion of Aβ monomers, dimmers and trimers as 55:30:15, respectively. Further, monomers and dimmers exhibited toxicity in culture only in the presence of microglia. Without these cells, even a 10-fold increase in dose has failed to exhibit toxic effects. Therefore it is now widely held that the toxicity of Aβ peptides is, in part, related to their aggregation state. This elegantly explains the various deviations in published literature discussed here (Morgan et al 2004).

Intraneuronal Aβ

Another intriguing aspect of Aβ species is that they are also synthesized in subcellular compartments such as the endosomes and lysosomes, particularly but not exclusively in non-neuronal cell systems (Haass et al 1992; Wilson et al 2002). Both major forms of Aβ peptide appear to be synthesized in specific subcellular locations. Aβ_1–40 is formed in the transgolgi network (TGN) while Aβ_1–42 is produced in the endoplasmic reticulum/immediate compartment (ER/IC). The Aβ_1–42 is retained inside the cell in both neurons and other cell types and is therefore not destined to be secreted into the extracellular matrix with the possible fate of becoming part of a plaque deposit (Cook et al 1997; Hartmann et al 1997; Wild-Bode et al 1997; Xu et al 1997; Skovronsky et al 1998; Greenfield et al 1999). Are these intracellular (or with more relevance, intraneuronal) Aβ fractions toxic as well? There is mounting evidence that suggests this might be the case. The following is a selection of current literature supporting this idea:

1. Takashi and colleagues (2002) have observed that intra-neuronal Aβ accumulates in multi-vesicular bodies and late endosomes in both the brains of AD patients as well as APP transgenic mice. In a more recent study, Oakley and colleagues (2006) have found that Aβ accumulates near the axon hillock in APP/PS1 double transgenic mice and suggest that this might potentially interfere with axonal transport and possibly action potential generation as well.

2. More directly, investigations of intracellular Aβ have shown that the peptides can reduce presynaptic and post-synaptic markers, cause abnormal neuronal morphology and elevation of p25 [activator of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (cdk5); an early marker of neuronal degeneration] (Urbanc et al 2002; Cruz and Tsai 2004).

3. It has also been suggested that an over accumulation of Aβ_1–42 inside the neuron causes lysis and amyloid plaques represent the sites where this happens. In other words, these lesions are the remnants of lysed neuronal populations (Wirths et al 2004). This hypothesis is not without some empirical support. For example:

   1. In neurons in culture, over time there is an increase in intracellular Aβ_1–42 as well as an increase in the Aβ_1–42/Aβ_1–40 ratio. This increase is higher than secreted Aβ (Turner et al 1996; Skovronsky et al 1998).

   2. As noted above, neurofibrillary tangles are the other hallmark lesion of AD and are composed of hyper-phosphorylated tau protein. The protein is observed to be about 20–25 nm wide with periodic twisting and is therefore also referred to as paired helical filaments (PHF). PHF accumulation is one of the earliest events in AD pathology. Intracellular Aβ appears to accumulate even before PHF becomes detectable and, more interestingly, declines as cognitive dysfunction progresses and plaque deposition accelerates (Gouras et al 2000; Fernandez-Vizarra et al 2004).

   3. In several AD animal models, intraneuronal Aβ correlates with early synaptic dysfunction prior to plaque deposition and the appearance of tangles (Takahashi et al 2002; Wirths et al 2002; Oddo et al 2003; Schmitz et al 2004).

   4. In animal models in which βAPP, Presenilin-1 (PS1) or Presenilin-2 (PS2) genes are mutated, the intracellular Aβ_1–42/Aβ_1–40 ratio is increased (Wang et al 2006).

Overall, these tantalizing pieces of evidence strongly suggest that Aβ peptides are not an isolated extracellular phenomenon. Instead, there seems to be a dynamic relationship between two pools of Aβ, one inside and the other external to neurons in critical brain regions. Further details of the temporal relationship between these two pools needs further study and should reveal fascinating insights into AD pathology.

Aβ triggers apoptosis or necrosis?

Imaging and molecular studies on human brains affected by AD show ample evidence that there is both focal and diffuse degeneration and loss of neuronal tissue. What is less clear is whether this represents necrosis of cells in the brain or a manifestation of apoptosis. For example Behl and colleagues (1994) observed that PC12 cells when exposed to Aβ (25–35) underwent necrosis (electron microscopy data). In addition and quite interestingly, evidence has been found in humans carrying the presenilin-1 mutation E280A, that neurons undergo necrosis (Velez-Pardo et al 2001). In contrast, several other recent studies seem to implicate apoptosis as the underlying mechanism of neural dysfunction and loss. For example, increased expression of p53 (a widely used marker of apoptotic DNA damage) was noted in neurons exposed to Aβ (Copani et al 2002). More specifically, studies have shown that the expression of the pro-apoptotic effector bax is upregulated and the anti-apoptotic molecule, bcl2 is decreased in AD (Paradis et al 1996; Tamagno et al 2003). Tamagno’s group have also published results that demonstrate recruitment of p53 and cytosolic release of cytochrome-c as well as activation of caspase-3 (all excellent markers of apoptosis), in Aβ exposed neurons (Tamagno et al 2003).

Another confounding aspect of deciding between which of these two phenomena dominate in a given situation is that the distinction between the two has become increasingly less certain. This is evident, for example, from a sharing of signaling pathways between the two processes (McHugh and Turina 2006). In addition, one of the best studied AD causing gene mutations is in the Presenilin-1 locus on chromosome 14. This has been shown to increase neuronal vulnerability to kainic-acid induced necrosis by one of this review’s co-authors (Guo et al 1999). Furthermore, the intensity of the same type of insult can become decisive in whether apoptosis or necrosis will supervene (Denecker et al 2001). Other situational peculiarities also seem to make a difference. For example a depletion of cellular ATP has been shown to shift the outcome from apoptosis to necrosis (Eguchi et al 1997; Leist et al 1997).

Neuronal Ca²⁺ homeostasis and the role of amyloid β

From the evolutionary standpoint, Ca²⁺ homeostasis is affected through an ancient cellular system of ion channels, intracellular stores and signaling cascades. This is not surprising because the ion is intimately involved in a wide range of physiological reactions and processes (Verkhratsky 1998; Toescu and Verkhratsky 2000). This system utilizes the very large transmembrane Ca²⁺ gradient which far exceeds that of all the other physiologically relevant ions. Therefore even small changes in Ca²⁺ conductance in the cell membrane result in large effects on intracellular Ca²⁺ concentrations [Ca²⁺]_i. Thus the system is one with a very high signal-to-noise ratio.

The influx of Ca²⁺ ions through voltage-gated plasma membrane channels (VDCC) is a critical signal in neurotransmitter release from the presynaptic terminal as well as subsequent responses by the postsynaptic cell (Yuste et al 2000; Burnashev and Rozov 2005; Hartmann and Konnerth 2005). The resting neuron maintains a large Ca²⁺ gradient between the extracellular space and the cytosol. Specific signals such as voltage change or ligand-receptor interactions, effect opening of a variety of Ca²⁺ channels. These conduits are found both on the plasma membrane (the L, N and some R-type channels) as well as on the surface of intracellular Ca²⁺ stores (eg, the RyR channels on the SER) (Akita and Kuba 2000; Vanterpool et al 2005). These channels cause a dramatic increase in intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration ([Ca²⁺]_i) and are (depending on the magnitude of the Ca²⁺ transient) evoke complex buffering systems {eg, Ca²⁺ buffering proteins, smooth ER Ca²⁺-ATPases (SERCA), mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake, plasmalemmal Ca²⁺-ATPases (PMCA) and the Na+/Ca²⁺ exchanger}. These corrections tend to restore [Ca²⁺]_i to resting levels (Wuytack et al 2002; Buchholz et al 2007). The transient rise in [Ca²⁺]_i under normal conditions is very short lived (typically on the order of seconds to minutes). This rise in Ca²⁺ in turn sets up downstream signaling for a variety of cellular functions such as neurite growth, synaptogenesis, synaptic transmission and plasticity and cell survival (Mattson 2007). However in pathological states (such as AD) and even in normal aging, Ca²⁺ flux and cellular load is poorly controlled. The mechanisms of these disturbances are varied and include oxidative stress (particularly membrane associated oxidative stress; MAOS) and disturbed energy metabolism (Mattson 2007). MAOS impairs the function of ion-motive ATPases and glutamate and glucose transporters and this in turn promote membrane depolarization, further Ca²⁺ influx and glutamate excitotoxicity through over activation of glutamate receptors (Mattson 1998; Arundine and Tymianski 2004; Mattson 2007). Table 1 provides a summary of native neuronal ion channels.

Table 1 Summary of native neuronal ion channels

Voltage-gated Ca^2+ channels on the cell surface (VOCCs)	These channels are one of the two main routes of Ca^2+ entry into the cell and are regulated by changes in membrane voltage (Hofmann et al 1994; Hollmann and Heinemann 1994; Catterall 1998).
Ionotropic Ca^2+ channels	This is the other main variety of Ca^2+ channels expressed on the neuronal membrane and are gated by binding of specific agonists (eg, ATP) (Gever et al 2006).
Intracellular Ca^2+ channels	This class of Ca^2+ channels is found on the membranes of intracellular Ca^2+ stores, ie, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) (Furuichi and Mikoshiba 1995; Verkhratsky and Shmigol 1996).

Why is Ca²⁺ so critical to the neuron? More specifically, why is the aging brain of an AD patient more sensitive to Ca²⁺ perturbations in general and the impact of Aβ in particular? These fascinating questions have direct bearing if one is to be convinced that abnormal ion channels (especially those showing selectivity for cations like Ca²⁺) might be part of the toxic mechanism behind AD pathology. In brief the following summary of investigation helps to understand why this might be the case:

1. Evidence suggests that larger Ca²⁺-dependent after hyperpolarization and increased activity of L-type Ca²⁺ channels occurs in the aging brain.

2. Increased Ca²⁺ release from intracellular stores appears to contribute to cell death and vulnerability in several models of neuronal toxicity.

3. Some AD-associated gene mutations (eg, Presenilin mutations) appear to alter the expression of intracellular Ryanodine receptors (RyR) which mediate Ca²⁺ release from intracellular stores.

4. In hippocampal slices from the aging rat brain, Ca²⁺-induced Ca²⁺ release (CICR) seems to be upregulated.

[For a review see Thibault et al 2007].

In view of the significant correlation between intra-neuronal accumulation of Aβ and the critical role of Ca²⁺ ion channels in subcellular structures (such as the ER), it is seductive to think that Aβ’s ion channel forming ability might also extend to intracellular sites. Specifically, what if these peptides were also capable of inserting as aberrant channels in intracellular Ca²⁺ stores? Could this possibility amplify the perturbations Aβ peptides can induce on the surface of neurons? Not only is this a fascinating idea, it is also very challenging to prove. Some of the difficulty stems from the technical issues of electrophysiological recordings from intracellular organelles. In fact, it was not until 1997 that Jonas and Kaczmarek reported successful results of patch-clamp recordings from intracellular membranes from a variety of cell types including Chinese hamster ovary cells, the giant presynaptic terminal of the squid and rat microglial cells. Prior to this report, electrophysiological recordings from intracellular structures were limited to artificial lipid bilayers or preparations of isolated organelles. However, in addition to the technical difficulty of achieving consistent giga-ohm seal patch-clamps on intracellular membranes, the additional difficulty in getting meaningful electrophysiological data is that the ionic composition of intracellular compartments is not objectively measurable in such experimental models. Thus, short of creating an excised patch and then studying ionic flow across (for instance in an inside-in configuration) the subcellular membrane, convincing characterization of ion channels (gating, conductance, selectivity, etc) cannot be ascertained (Jonas et al 1997). Intracellular patch-clamping is a technique in its infancy. In the future, advances in both recording hardware and computer software are likely to advance our understanding of intracellular ion channels in general, and Aβ induced channels in particular.

A selection of literature that supports Ca²⁺ ion perturbation as a central aspect of AD pathology is presented:

1. The levels of the calcium binding protein calsenilin are elevated in the cortex of AD patients. This is also noted in the neocortex and hippocampus regions of βAPP mutant transgenic mice as well as neurons in culture (Jo et al 2004).

2. In neurons that are burdened by PHF, increases in Ca²⁺-dependent proteases and Ca²⁺-activated kinases have been demonstrated (Xiao et al 1996; Grynspan et al 1997).

3. In both familial and sporadic forms of AD as well as transgenic animal models of the disease, disruptions of Ca²⁺ homeostatic mechanisms have been reported (Eckert et al 2001).

These are very selective examples of a fast growing body of literature that unambiguously implicates Ca²⁺ and its cellular regulation in AD pathogenesis (Mattson et al 1992). In addition Mattson’s group have clearly shown that the aggregation state of Aβ and loss of neuronal Ca²⁺ homeostasis are directly related (Mattson et al 1993). This last point is an important one for the purpose of this review since it lays the foundation for examining the ion channel hypothesis of AD pathophysiology in greater detail.

Aβ toxicity as a result of the formation of abnormal ion channels

Shortly after Mattson et al and Hardy et al had reported perturbed neuronal Ca²⁺ homeostasis under the influence of Aβ, Nelson Arispe first reported that Aβ formed ion channels in model membranes (Hardy and Higgins 1992; Mattson et al 1992; Arispe et al 1993). The hypothesis that Arispe et al tested was based, principally on Mattson and Hardy’s reports of disturbances in Ca²⁺ homeostasis. Briefly, certain conditions or triggers (eg, genetic influences, aging, etc) predispose APP proteolysis to produce more Aβ_1–42 fragments. This peptide can oligomerize and insert into the cell membrane as a cation-selective ion channel. These channels allow unregulated Ca²⁺ movement into the cell leading to a breakdown of ionic homeostasis (see below).

Calcium ion alterations induced by Aβ

Since Ca²⁺ is critical to cell function and therefore tightly regulated, disorders or disruptions in the Ca²⁺ signaling machinery of the neuron has many deleterious consequences. One of the earliest reports in the literature that demonstrated Ca²⁺ toxicity with reference to AD, was by Hardy and Higgins. These researchers reported that Aβ disrupted Ca²⁺ homeostasis and increased [Ca²⁺]_i (Hardy and Higgins 1992). Further confirmation of this idea was provided by Young et al (1986) who reported that [Ca²⁺]_i rose when Aβ was applied to neurons in culture. In an attempt to explain these findings, Nelson Arispe’s group posited a new hypothesis basing it on the assumption that Aβ peptides could be forming Ca²⁺ conducting channels in cell membranes. This would readily explain Ca²⁺ anomalies reported by Hardy et al. They tested the idea rigorously and published their findings in 1993. Arispe and colleagues created a de novo planar bilayer of palmitoy-loleolylphosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylserine in a plexiglass chamber where channel currents could be recorded across the membrane. In this setup, when millimolar concentrations of Aβ_1–40 were applied to the membrane, discrete channel currents were consistently observed within minutes. Standard electrophysiological techniques (such as an analysis of reversal potentials) suggested that the Aβ peptide formed cation-selective channels and that at transmembrane potential negative to −4 mV, Ca²⁺ moved across the membrane and the kinetics of this translocation was consistent with transport through a Ca²⁺ channel. These data were very compelling and heralded subsequent work by many other investigators who validated the phenomenon of ion flow (especially Ca²⁺) across artificial membranes under the influence of Aβ (Arispe et al 1993) (see below).

The Aβ ion channel hypothesis tested

Soon after publishing data on ion flow in artificial membranes, Arispe collaborated with the Pollard and Rojas group at the NIH. Together, these investigators modeled the molecular structure of Aβ ion channels. This mathematical/computer simulation theorized that Aβ could form ion channels if it assembled into subunits. Alone, a single Aβ peptide sequence could not be visualized to form an ion pore given the relatively large conductances that had been observed in empirical data (5 nS) and the relatively small size of Aβ (about 40 or 42 amino acids) (Durell et al 1994) The model suggested that oligomeric Aβ subunits could form an ionophore-like assembly that closely resembled native cation channels.

In 1997 Sanderson and Ingram reported that at micromolar concentrations, Aβ_25–35 could induce voltage-gated Ca²⁺ currents in the hNT human teratoma cell line. This was an odd finding because of the different Aβ isoform that was used (25–35 rather than 1–42 or 1–40) and that the authors were interpreting their results to show voltage-gating. This is difficult to reconcile since the current understanding of ion channel voltage sensors is that they are structures formed by pore loops and the S4 transmembrane segment of channel subunits (Bezanilla 2000). An analogous structure has not been shown in Aβ channels or channel models. Despite these caveats the Sanderson paper is still an important one because it suggests that channel pore formation might not be limited to only one isotype of Aβ.

In 1997, Arispe and his colleagues further added to data in support the of the “Aβ ion channel” paradigm. In an immortalized human hypothalamic cell line (GT1–7), they used the patch-clamp technique to record currents under voltage-clamp conditions. Aβ_1–40 and the reverse sequence 40–1 were both tested in these experiments. Only Aβ_1–40 was demonstrated to form cation-selective channels in this cell type. In the previous year (1996), Arispe had already reported that Aβ channel activity could be modulated by Zn²⁺. Specifically, Zn²⁺ altered channel kinetics (at 250 μM concentrations) and blocked channel activity at higher concentrations (Arispe et al 1996). Subsequently, these investigators were also able to show that Zn²⁺ could block (Aβ) channel currents when applied to the intracellular face of the cell membrane. This fact was a strong argument in favor of discrete channel formation since such blockade was only thought possible by the metal ion physically obstructing a channel pore (Kawahara et al 1997). In 1998, Seung and Lal reported on a collaboration between the University of California at Santa Barbara and Yeungnam University in Korea. These authors looked at Aβ_1–42 activity in reconstituted phospholipid vesicles and found that when the vesicles were reconstituted with Aβ_1–42, there was a 4-fold increase in radio-labeled Ca²⁺ and this was prevented in the presence of Tris and, most interestingly, Zn²⁺ (Rhee et al 1998). Zn²⁺ however, was not the only reported channel blocker in these and similar experiments reported by others. Bruce Kagan’s lab at the University of California Los Angeles published findings in planar bilayers that both Aβ_1–40 and Aβ_1–42 induced cationic currents and these were not only blocked by Zn²⁺ but also by the diazo dye, congo red (Hirakura et al 1999). These results were further confirmed by Lal’s group in 1999 (Lin et al 1999). The next year, Bhatia and Lal further tested Aβ_1–40, 1–42 and 25–35 in cultured endothelial cells. Even in this cell system, the Aβ ion channel idea was reinforced. In this study, Aβ_1–42 was shown to cause morphologically proven cellular degeneration more readily than the other isoforms and that this effect was concentration dependent. This was also dependent on the presence of Ca²⁺. As predicted, micromolar amounts of Zn²⁺ afforded protection from peptide induced cell damage in the study (Bhatia et al 2000).

In recent years, more and more work appears to substantiate the data of the 1980s and 90s. For example, data showing an increase in [Ca²⁺]_i in a phaeochromocytoma cell line (PC12) by nanomolar concentrations of Aβ_25–35 have been published. This effect was reported to be dependent on extracellular Ca²⁺ levels. Using a variety of classic Ca²⁺ channel blockers as well as other compounds, these authors effectively argued that the rise in [Ca²⁺]_i was through Aβ induced channel pores and not secondary to Ca²⁺ entry through L-type or ligand-gated channels (Huang et al 2000). In reconstituted planar lipid bilayers, Lin and Lal reported that Aβ_1–42 formed oligomeric channel like structures (visualized by atomic force microscopy). They further reported that at physiologic nanomolar concentrations Aβ_1–42 caused neurite loss in mouse neuroblastoma cells and at micromolar levels this effect was amplified and led to cell death. Their argument was strengthened by experiments where Ca²⁺ dependence of these Aβ_1–42 effects was compellingly demonstrated and protection by the presence of Zn²⁺ was also established (Lin et al 2001).

In 2003 Bahadi et al added Cu²⁺ to the growing list of substances that could significantly modulate the currents induced by Aβ. Again working with reconstituted artificial membranes as well as liposomes, this group reported that 150 μM of Cu²⁺ could block outward currents quite effectively (Bahadi et al 2003). In 2004, Arispe reported that Aβ_1–40 induced currents in lipid bilayers could be blocked by specific peptides that had been designed to block the pore region of the Aβ channel. In this novel paper, Arispe et al designed simple peptides that conformed to the Aβ oligomeric structure of ion channel models (specifically, the pore region). These peptides were typically only 7–11 residues in length and required relatively simple protein chemistry equipment to synthesize. Several of these in-house manufactured proteins were tested in Arispe’s laboratory and some were found to block channel currents. One of several peptides that were tested (designated NA4 by the authors) proved to be the most effective blocker of channel currents. This series of experiments lent strength to the hypothesis that Aβ could insert into planar bilayers and form channel-like pores whose structure could be predicted and activity blocked by specific peptides (Arispe 2004). Arispe has continued to publish data in support of the ion channel hypothesis even more recently. For example, in 2006 his lab has investigated Aβ’s toxic effects in cultured cell lines (PC12) with particular reference to apoptosis. His findings can be summarized as follows: (i) increase in [Ca²⁺]_i by nanomolar concentrations of Aβ_1–42; (ii) blockade of this effect by NA4 [Arispe’s previously designed Aβ channel blocking peptide]. The creation and testing of several “blocking peptides” in this study was based on the hypothesis that if Aβ was forming channel-like structures on artificial membranes, then complimentary peptide sequences of adjacent Aβ subunits in this channel-like structure would interact with each other and that these would also interact with synthesized peptide sequences designed to complement those on the subunits. Several different peptides were tested in these experiments; (Arispe 2004)]; (iii) increased permeability of PC12 cell membrane when exposed to Aβ_1–42; (iv) retention of Aβ_1–42 on cell surface even after the cell culture medium (that initially introduced the peptide) was removed. This suggested stable insertion of Aβ in the membrane, possibly as an ionophore; (v) reversal of toxic effects to the cells upon removal of Aβ_1–42 (Simakova and Arispe 2006).

The basic conflict in literature which supports the “ion channel” hypothesis is clear. The predominant evidence is indirect, is limited to in vitro systems and appears to implicate more that one isotype of amyloid β (the bulk of the evidence comes from studies that have used commercially sourced, exogenous Aβ_1–40). The gold standard of electrophysiological studies is the whole-cell, patch-clamp experiment. In the ideal sense, if neuronal cells could be isolated from relevant regions of the brain in AD animal models (especially a hypothetical one that would have a true AD phenotype) and all the native ion channels on such a hypothetical cell could be blocked without altering the physiology of the cell followed by recording ionic currents form these neurons under clamp conditions, one could expect empirical evidence that would be direct, widely accepted and most useful to the understanding of AD. This, however, remains an elusive goal. Table 2 summarizes important literature presenting data in support of Amyloid β ion channel formation and activity. As is clear from an overview of this body of literature, the experimental design, nature of model systems and results and conclusions of these studies is not consistent. Specific questions that are very critical have not been answered. For example, it is widely accepted that Aβ_1–42 is probably the only toxic entity or in the very least, is more toxic to neurons in AD. Its more abundant companion, 1–40, appears to contribute less or even not at all to AD neuronal damage and loss. Which of these has more ion channel forming capabilities?

Table 2 Summary of selected key publications which support, directly or indirectly, the ion channel hypothesis of AD pathogenesis. Note relative dominance of in vitro systems and that the majority of studies utilized exogenous Amyloid β_1–40

Citation	Experimental system	Aβ species	Main conclusions
Arispe, Rojas and Pollard, PNAS, 1993	Artificial membranes	1–40	Cation selective channel formation by exogenous Aβ 1, 40 application, recording of Ca^2+ currents and blockade of these by Tromethamine and Al^3+.
Whitson and Appel Neurobiol Aging, 1995	Rat Hippocampal neuronal culture	1–40	Neuronal survival assessed following exposure to exogenous Aβ1, 40. Diltiazem (Ca^2+ channel blocker) attenuated toxicity of Aβ while other blockers did not.
Sanderson, Butler and Ingram, Brain Res, 1997	hNT Human teratocar cinoma (neuron-like) immortalized cell line	25–35	hNT cells displayed inward Ca^2+ currents with exposure to μM concentrations of Aβ 25, 35.
Kawahara, Arispe, Kuroda et al Biophys, J 1997	Immortalized hypothalamic neurons (GT1–7)	1–40	Formation of cation channels were seen after application of Aβ1, 40. Zn^2+ blocked these channel currents
Rhee, Quist and Lal, J Biol Chem, 1998	Synthesized liposomes with Aβ1, 42 incorporated	1, 42	Large influx of Ca^2+ seen in liposomes constituted with Aβ1, 42. Effect was blocked by Tris and Zn^2+.
Hirakura, Lin and Kagan, J Neurosci Res, 1999	Planar lipid bilayers	1–42 and 1–40	Both species induced currents which were cation selective and were blocked by Zn^2+ and Congo Red.
Lin, Bhatia and Lal, FASEB J, 2001	Planar lipid bilayers	1–42	Atomic Force Microscopic (AFM) evidence of multimeric structures formed in planar lipid bilayers under the influence of Aβ1–42. Aβ1–42 induced neuritic degeneration and neuronal death and these effects were blocked by Zn^2+.
Arispe, J Memb Biol, 2004	Planar lipid bilayers	1–40	Cation-selectivity observed in ionic currents recorded from lipid bilayers were blocked by custom made peptides designed to block the putative channel pore.
Quist, Duodevski, Lin et al PNAS, 2005	Planar lipid bilayers	1–40	Aβ 1–40 induced ionic currents in planar lipid bilayers. AFM evidence for channel-like structures in these structures when exposed to Aβ1–40.

If Aβ_1–40 forms channels more readily then this would ostensibly fly in the face of received wisdom that Aβ_1–42 is more toxic. Why might certain cortical areas be prone to aberrant channel formation? APP is not unique to neurons or even to CNS. Why do its proteolytic products not manifest toxicity elsewhere? These questions have been posed by many but remain unanswered.

The counter argument

A strong argument against the idea of Aβ peptides forming ion channels has emerged in very recent literature. James Hall’s laboratory at the University of California at Irvine and their collaborators at the NIH have reported that amyloid oligomers breakdown or significantly reduce the normal dielectric barrier in lipid bilayers. This is in sharp contrast to the ion channel idea because it implies that the plasma membrane might become “leaky” to cations and would then induce qualitatively the same effects as have been reported in recent years (Sokolov et al 2006). Sokolov’s interpretation of the data is that Aβ oligomers increase the conductance of lipid bilayers and this has been tested by both anionic as well as cationic probes. These investigators saw no single channel activity in their model. It is difficult to be compelled by a single set of experiments even though Sokolov’s experimental design is perfectly valid. However, more persuasive are the points the authors make in discussing the implications of their work. Quite correctly they identify the two major hurdles that obstruct wider acceptances of the Aβ ion channel hypothesis:

1. The single channel currents that have been reported in Aβ literature must successfully predict the bulk conductance properties of neuronal membranes.

2. Current blockade by various agents must also be validated in the context of whole membranes.

Neither of these two phenomena has been tested thus far. Therefore, the overall limitations of the evidence that has been published from many different groups working in parallel in several different institutions may be summarized as:

1. Much of the evidence that centers on the demonstration of single channel currents, have been recorded either in artificial membranes or in immortalized cell lines.

2. Ionic conductances of bulk membranes have neither been predicted by single channel properties nor have these been tested.

3. In vivo experiments on cortical neurons in primary culture from some of the standard animal models of AD, could effectively demonstrate classical properties of cation-selective ion channels. Such experiments have not been performed.

4. Unequivocal evidence that the reversal of aberrant ionic flow (eg, with selective channel blockers) through hypothesized Aβ ion channels can also attenuate the neuronal toxicity or prevent apoptosis or enhance cell survival in AD models has not been demonstrated.

5. Clear demonstration of neuronal cell surface expression of oligomerized, channel forming Aβ in vivo has not been done.

Conclusion

The ion channel hypothesis of AD pathophysiology is a rational extrapolation of many sets of data published over several decades. Collectively, the evidence suggests that amyloid β peptides cause neuronal degeneration and apoptosis in AD by inserting in a stable manner into the neuronal membrane as unregulated cationic channels. These abnormal channels ultimately compromise ionic homeostasis of affected neurons.

There are several inherent challenges that will continue to confound investigators who pursue this direction in AD research. As discussed above, Aβ ion channels are an unproven phenomenon at this time. In many ways, it does or potentially can, predict the phenomena observed in the neuropathology of the AD brain. In order to strengthen the “ion channel hypothesis” investigators will have to overcome several distinct challenges. These are:

1. Though there are many AD animal models, none are entirely satisfactory. For example, the large scale loss of neurons observed in human sufferers of AD has not been duplicated in transgenic models. Overall, a relatively modest degree of cell death has been observed in just one transgenic model (APP transgenic; ~14% neuronal loss) and this too was limited to the CA1 region of the hippocampus (Stalder et al 1999; Gotz et al 2004). In addition, the exact spatial and temporal sequence of plaque deposition and tangle formation has also not been duplicated with fidelity in these animals. Neuronal culture is the most accessible method of testing native neuronal populations and such experiments are not proximate simulations of what might be happening in the human AD brain. Furthermore, classic single-cell electrophysiological experiments (ie, with the whole-cell patch-clamp technique) is challenging and best suited for studying native channel populations.

2. Electrophysiological studies in neurons in culture are technically demanding and similar experiments on sub-cellular structures is only at a nascent stage and needs further development (Hamill et al 1981; Mazzanti et al 1990; Keller and Hedrich 1992; Ehrlich et al 1994; Jonas et al 1997).

3. In studies that have been detailed in this review, the methodology involved dissolution of Aβ in water. Dissolved monomeric peptide is then added to solutions bathing lipid bilayers (in setups modified from patch-clamp amplifiers and equipment). Alternatively, the peptide is sonicated in the presence of lipids to form proteoliposomes which are then fused into the bilayer. In addition different peptide fragments are used and the consequent variability of data between laboratories should not be surprising.

4. The required proof of establishing abnormal ion channels is necessarily stringent. The literature claims that these channels are cation selective and can be blocked. Carrying the concept from artificial membranes to living cells is the required step that needs to be carefully and consistently demonstrated. The criteria for identification might flow through the following scheme:

   1. Identification of single channel currents in relevant model systems.

   2. Testing the channel in a heterologous system, such as Xenopus.

   3. The use of advanced techniques such as reverse genetic approaches and nucleic acid microarray methods to modulate the behavior of these putative structures.

Despite these daunting obstacles, in our opinion, there is a clear advantage in pursuing the “Aβ ion channel hypothesis” because if validated it has the potential of providing an innovative framework upon which AD therapy, especially through pharmacological means, can be designed. Currently the only approved treatments for AD are either cholinesterase inhibitors (such as Aricept^®) or the glutamate antagonist, Memantine^®. At best these are quite limited in their efficacy to halt or attenuate the progression of Alzheimer’s dementia.

There has been enthusiastic interest in a new pharmaceutical strategy in AD treatment. These are drugs that directly attenuate Amyloid β levels in brains of AD patients. Two of these compounds are now in phase III trials. R-FLURBIPROFEN, one of these, is a single enantiomer of the NSAID, Flurbiprofen. Although this molecule lacks any activity against COX (cyclooxygenase), it is a potent attenuator of Amyloid β (2005 Mar). The other compound is TRAMIPROSATE (ALZHEMED^™). In the brain, interaction between Amyloid β and proteoglycans promotes tissue deposition of the peptide. Tramiprosate (3-amino-1-propane-sulfonic acid) was developed as a glycosaminoglycan (GAG) mimetic that would interact with the GAG-binding region of Aβ thereby antagonizing fibrillation. This compound is also in phase III trials (Aisen 2005). Another compound that is generating interest is the γ-secretase inhibitor, LY450139. This drug is in Phase II trials. In 2004, working with this compound, Gitter and colleagues demonstrated that LY450139 was a potent, stereoselective inhibitor of Aβ secretion in SWEAPP293 cells (derived from a HEK cell line which overexpressed APP carrying the Swedish mutation, SWEAPP293). In this system, LY450139 was seen to inhibit Aβ via antagonism of γ-secretase activity (Gitter et al 2004). If successful in trials, drugs like LY450139 have significant potential to mature into novel treatments of AD and provide additional evidence that the Aβ neuronal load is the direct cause of dementia in this disorder.

AD remains a disease with an increasing health care burden on the US economy. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that 5 million Americans are currently afflicted (of a total population of 300 million) and AD and other dementias impact the economy to the tune of some $148 billion annually by 2007. Therefore any investment of financial or intellectual resources in this area of AD investigation is very likely to pay dividends.

It is also possible that the ion channel hypothesis is either flawed or limited in its scope. In other words, AD is either completely unrelated to abnormal ion channels or ionic flow (the Sokolov paper in 2006 is a case in point) or these anomalies only play a minor role in the mechanism of neuronal degeneration or dysfunction. If the hypothesis remains unproven or is further challenged by contradictory data, it is likely that such a shift in paradigm might unravel the mystery of Aβ toxicity to the extent that an effective treatment of AD becomes a reality.