Exploring the Role of Circadian Proteins in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s pose a significant challenge in the field of medicine, prompting scientists worldwide to explore new ways to combat the progression of these diseases. Dr. Eric Musiek and Dr. Jiyeon Lee led a research team to study the impact of a specific circadian protein in slowing the progression of neurological diseases.

The Role of REV-ERBα Protein in the Body

The circadian protein REV-ERBα plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s daily rhythms, particularly in metabolism and inflammation. Although its role in the brain was not fully understood, previous studies on other tissues have shown that this protein affects the levels of the molecule NAD+, which is vital for metabolism, energy production, and DNA repair.

Low levels of NAD+ are closely associated with brain aging and neurodegenerative conditions. Consequently, many dietary supplements aim to boost NAD+ levels as a strategy to slow aging and enhance cellular health.

Experiments on Protein Deletion in Mice

To confirm the role of REV-ERBα, the research team deleted this protein in two groups of mice: one with deletion throughout the body and the other only in astrocytes, which are supportive cells that form a significant part of the central nervous system. In both cases, NAD+ levels increased significantly.

The results suggest that eliminating REV-ERBα in astrocytes directly increases NAD+ in the brain, paving the way for future treatments targeting neurodegeneration.

Drug Therapy for Brain Protection

In another experiment, researchers blocked REV-ERBα using genetic methods and a new drug that also showed promising results in studies on Parkinson’s disease and beta-amyloid. This approach increased NAD+ levels and protected mice from damage associated with tau protein.

Tau protein accumulations are known to disrupt brain functions and lead to degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. The findings suggest that manipulating the body’s internal clock, particularly by inhibiting REV-ERBα, could represent a new way to protect the brain and prevent tau accumulation.

Conclusion

This study reveals that circadian proteins may play a crucial role in neurodegenerative brain diseases. By inhibiting the REV-ERBα protein, NAD+ levels in the brain can be increased, potentially helping to protect neurons from tau-related damage. These findings offer new hope for developing treatments that may slow or halt the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.