Identification of homologous protein models via 3D comparisons using predicted structures.

Recent advances in protein structure prediction enable 3D homology alignment and domain annotation using tertiary structures. Here, we present a protocol to identify homologous structures and annotate protein domains through in silico comparisons using the AlphaFold database. We describe steps for downloading and installing PyMOL software, preparing the query structure, and conducting a 3D homology search.

Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity and β-amyloid oligomer formation by 6-bromotryptamine A, a multi-target anti-Alzheimer's molecule.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by learning and memory impairments. Recent studies have suggested that AD can be induced by multiple factors, such as cholinergic system dysfunction and β-amyloid (Aβ) neurotoxicity. It was reported that 6-bromo-N-propionyltryptamine could treat neurological diseases, including AD.

A11-positive β-amyloid Oligomer Preparation and Assessment Using Dot Blotting Analysis.

β-amyloid (Aβ) is a hydrophobic peptide with an intrinsic tendency to self-assemble into aggregates. Among various aggregates, Aβ oligomer is widely accepted as the leading neurotoxin in the progress of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and is considered to be the crucial event in the pathogenesis of AD. Therefore, Aβ oligomer inhibitors might prevent neurodegeneration and have the potential to be developed as disease-modifying treatments of AD.

Taxifolin prevents β-amyloid-induced impairments of synaptic formation and deficits of memory via the inhibition of cytosolic phospholipase A/prostaglandin E content.

Taxifolin is a potent flavonoid with anti-inflammatory activity. Taxifolin has been reported to decrease the accumulation of β-amyloid (Aβ), and reduce Aβ-induced neurotoxicity. However, the detail molecular mechanism of taxifolin against Aβ-induced neurotoxicity is largely unknown.

Indirubin Derivative 7-Bromoindirubin-3-Oxime (7Bio) Attenuates Aβ Oligomer-Induced Cognitive Impairments in Mice.

Indirubins are natural occurring alkaloids extracted from indigo dye-containing plants. Indirubins could inhibit various kinases, and might be used to treat chronic myelocytic leukemia, cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. 7-bromoindirubin-3-oxime (7Bio), an indirubin derivative derived from indirubin-3-oxime, possesses inhibitory effects against cyclin-dependent kinase-5 (CDK5) and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β), two pharmacological targets of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

5-Hydroxycyclopenicillone Inhibits β-Amyloid Oligomerization and Produces Anti-β-Amyloid Neuroprotective Effects In Vitro.

The oligomer of β-amyloid (Aβ) is considered the main neurotoxin in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Therefore, the inhibition of the formation of Aβ oligomer could be a target for AD therapy. In this study, with the help of the dot blotting assay and transmission electronic microscopy, it was have discovered that 5-hydroxycyclopenicillone, a cyclopentenone recently isolated from a sponge-associated fungus, effectively reduced the formation of Aβ oligomer from Aβ peptide in vitro.