Light mediated CDK5 repression and its effects on the circadian clock and Alzheimer’s disease

Dysregulation of cells in the brain impairs brain functions leading to various neurological diseases including Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Such dysregulation may come from kinases such as cyclin dependent kinase 5 (CDK5), a serine/threonine protein kinase governing important cellular processes. Indeed, a pathological increase of CDK5 activity promotes amyloid plaque formation, a hallmark of AD. Studies in elderly homes have revealed that elevated illumination can slow down the progress of AD, indicating that light affects AD development.

In line with this observation, the research group found that light downregulates CDK5 activity.
Light also affects circadian rhythms, which are dysregulated in AD. Therefore, the research group hypothesizes that light modulates CDK5 activity via post-translational modifications (PTMs) and thereby influences not only circadian rhythms but also the development of AD. The aim of this work is to unravel the mechanism by which light regulates CDK5. These findings will lay the foundation for the development of novel therapeutic approaches against AD.

Acknowledgments

This project is supported by a generous foundation that wishes to remain anonymous. We warmly express our sincere gratitude for their support.