Insights into the Biomarker Potential of Humanin and Mots-c Expression and Telomere Length in Alzheimer's Disease.
Transcript levels of Humanin and MOTS-c are significantly reduced in Alzheimer's disease compared to subjective cognitive decline, but plasma protein levels do not show the same pattern.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the humanin corpusSummary and findings
This study evaluated the association of Humanin (HN) and MOTS-c gene expression and protein levels with Alzheimer's disease (AD) markers in patients with AD, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and subjective cognitive decline (SCD) as controls. The study found that HN and MOTS-c transcript levels differed significantly among groups, while plasma protein concentrations did not discriminate between AD and MCI. No therapeutic claims are made.
Abstract
Humanin (HN) and MOTS-c are mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) known for their neuroprotective and metabolic functions. Their circulating and tissue levels decline with age and in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study aimed to evaluate whether blood and plasma gene expression and plasma protein levels of HN and MOTS-c are associated with AD markers, their role in the conversion from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to AD, and their overall association with the disease. A case-control study was conducted, including patients with AD and MCI, and individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) as controls. Gene expression levels were quantified from total RNA isolated from blood and plasma, normalised to mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNA-CN). ELISA was used to measure plasma HN and MOTS-c protein concentrations. HN and MOTS-c transcript levels differed significantly among study groups, whereas plasma protein concentrations did not discriminate between AD and MCI. In silico and RNA decay assays revealed faster degradation of HN mRNA and delayed but stable recovery of MOTS-c mRNA. Overall, blood and plasma transcript levels-but not circulating protein levels-of these MDPs were significantly reduced in AD compared to SCD, suggesting their potential as early biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease.
Background
This paper addresses the potential role of Humanin and Mots-c as biomarkers in Alzheimer's Disease, building on previous research that suggests these peptides may have neuroprotective properties. The relationship between telomere length and Alzheimer's has also been explored in prior studies, indicating a possible link to cellular aging and disease progression. Understanding these biomarkers could enhance diagnostic and prognostic capabilities in Alzheimer's.
Methods
Not reported in abstract.
Results
Not reported in abstract.
Interpretation
Not reported in abstract.
Key findings
- Not reported in abstract.
Limitations
- Not reported in abstract.