Trodusquemine enhances Aβ aggregation but suppresses its toxicity by displacing oligomers from cell membranes.

Transient oligomeric species formed during the aggregation process of the 42-residue form of the amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) are key pathogenic agents in Alzheimer's disease (AD). To investigate the relationship between Aβ aggregation and its cytotoxicity and the influence of a potential drug on both phenomena, we have studied the effects of trodusquemine. This aminosterol enhances the rate of aggregation by promoting monomer-dependent secondary nucleation, but significantly reduces the toxicity of the resulting oligomers to neuroblastoma cells by inhibiting their binding to the cellular membranes.

The effect of intermittent alcohol vapor or pulsatile heroin on somatic and negative affective indices during spontaneous withdrawal in Wistar rats.

Rationale: Once dependent on alcohol or opioids, negative affect may accompany withdrawal. Dependent individuals are hypothesized to "self-medicate" in order to cope with withdrawal, which promotes escalated alcohol and drug use.

Objectives: The current study aimed to develop a reliable animal model to assess symptoms that occur during spontaneous alcohol and opioid withdrawal.