Altered expression of a-type but not b-type synapsin isoform in the brain of patients at high risk for Alzheimer's disease assessed by DNA microarraytechnique

Using a cDNA microarray representing 6794 distinct human genes, we identifi ed candidate genes whose expression is altered in cerebral cortex of cases of early Alzheimer's disease (AD); among these was the synaptic vesicle pro tein synapsin II, which plays an important role in neurotransmitter release . While other candidate genes are presently under investigation in our lab, in this study we discuss the regulation of synapsin gene expression during the transition from normal cognitive function to early AD. We found a sele ctive decrease in the expression of the synapsin splice variants I-III of t he a-type isoform in the entorhinal (EC, BM36) but not visual cortex (VC, B M17) of cases characterized by the earliest clinically detectable stage of AD. In contrast, we found no changes in synapsin splice variant II of the b -type isoform. Alteration of synapsin expression at the earliest clinical s tage of AD may suggest novel strategies for improved treatment. (C) 2001 El sevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.