engleski

Cytopathological characterization of the brain in a rat model of sporadic Alzheimer's disease

Objective Sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (sAD) is a uniquely human condition, which must be studied in suitable non-genetically engineered model. Croatian scientist developed such a rat sAD model by intraventricular injection of streptozotocin, agent selectively toxic to particular brain cells which causes behavioural and neurochemical changes that resemble AD, but needs cytopathological characterization for its validation. This will be accomplished by collaborative research funded by Unity Through Knowledge Fund (UKF). UKF project aims to develop new installed capacity for research into sAD in Croatia, also to develop clear and tangible evidence of a functioning collaboration between home institutions of Croatian scientists living in Croatia and abroad, and finally to establish a new line of research to further characterize rat model of sporadic AD developed in Croatia. Methods The project will employ a battery of light- and electron microscopic cytopathological methods to reveal amyloid-containing, senile plaque-like and neurofibrillary tangle-like lesions, as well as neuronal loss in order to test the hypothesis that the STZ-treated rats exhibit progressive AD-like pathology as time after injection increases. In full compliance with the UKF guidelines, this project is also designed to support basic and applied scientific research to create new knowledge and to directly and indirectly strengthen the Croatian biomedical infrastructure and economy. Results The cytopathological brain analysis in this rat sAD model will provide data for correlation with the behavioral and neurochemical deficits on a dose-and time- dependent basis. This will further enable opportunity to characterize, compare and contrast AD-like lesions in the Croatian rat sAD model with actual patients with AD. The results of this research will provide a solid basis for future substantial international funding opportunities, and will also serve as a catalytic or “seeding” element to continue and expand the development of the biotechnology industry relevant to AD in Croatia. Conclusion The results of this UKF funded research will substantially contribute to understanding sAD pathophysiology and in the long term enable exploration of effective, targeted treatments for this major societal problem, leading to benefit of AD patients and society. Acknowledgement Supported by Unity Through Knowledge Fund. Additionally supported by MZOS and DAAD.

sporadic Alzheimer disease; streptozotocin; amyloid beta

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