Viral-Like Mechanisms of Intercellular Communication in the Pathology of Neurodegeneration

Synaptic and neuronal dysfunction is a characteristic early feature of neurodegenerative disorders, and usually predates neuronal death. Central to synaptic maintenance are intercellular signaling mechanisms that mediate synaptic homeostasis. We recently discovered that the neuronal gene Arc, a master regulator of synaptic plasticity and memory, also has a fundamental role in a novel form of intercellular communication that resembles retrovirus biology.

The team discovered that the neuronal gene Arc, a master regulator of synaptic plasticity and memory, also has a fundamental role in a novel form of intercellular communication that resembles retrovirus biology. They are testing whether Arc intercellular signaling is involved in the spread of pathology in Alzheimer’s disease. In particular, they found that Arc is required for tau transfer between cells. Ongoing studies are dissecting the precise mechanism and impact on tau pathology.