transgenic mouse expressing human amyloid precursor protein (APP) & human acetylcholinesterase

Introduction

Appearance of amyloid plaques occurred 30-50% sooner than in transgenic mice expressing APP alone. These results were interpreted as evidence that acetylcholinesterase may play a role in formation of amyloid plaques. The suggestion is made that acetylcholinesterase may act as a nucleating factor to promote conversion of soluble amyloid peptide into insoluble amyloid fibrils. A peripheral site rather than the active site of the enzyme is though to mediate the interaction (based on X-ray crystallography).

More general terms

• transgenic mouse

Additional terms

• acetylcholinesterase (AcChE)
• amyloid (senile, neuritic) plaque
• amyloid precursor protein; A4/beta amyloid precursor protein (APP)