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15 June 2001. The gene mutation that causes Huntington's disease has been known
for many years, yet the function of the encoded protein, huntingtin, and the
pathogenic mechanism of the mutant protein, have remained frustratingly elusive.
Various studies have shown that mutant huntingtin forms aggregates, which are
suspected of being toxic. Now a study published in the current issue of Science
indicates a new function for huntingtin: regulating transmission of brain-derived
neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that is essential for the survival of
the striatal neurons that die in Huntington's. This transcription is impaired
with mutant huntingtin, suggesting that loss of BDNF may leave striatal neurons
vulnerable. The new finding raises the possibility of treating Huntington's
with drugs or gene therapies that deliver BDNF to at-risk neurons.-June Kinoshita.
Reference:Zuccatto C, Ciammola A, Rigamonti D, Goffredo D, Conti L, Silani V, Sipione S, Cattaneo E, Leavitt BR, Hayden MR, Friedlander RM, MacDonald ME,Timmusk T. Loss of huntingtin-mediated BDNF gene transcription in Huntington's disease. Science 2001 June 14. Abstract
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Loss of huntingtin-mediated BDNF gene transcription in Huntington's disease.
