Biophysical and photobiological modulations of cellular pathways in Alzheimer's disease

Abstract

Title from PDF of title page (University of Missouri--Columbia, viewed on April 23, 2014).The entire dissertation/thesis text is included in the research.pdf file; the official abstract appears in the short.pdf file (which also appears in the research.pdf); a non-technical general description, or public abstract, appears in the public.pdf file.VitaThe overall goal of this thesis work is to study the effects of biomodulations on Alzheimer's disease (AD) related cellular pathways, using biophysical and photobiological methods, including secretory phospholipase A2, various fatty acids treatments and low energy light irradiation. By increasing membrane fluidity in neuronal cells, secretory phospholipase A2 and unsaturated fatty acids with 4 or more double bonds are able to increase the secretion of neuroprotective and neurotrophic [alpha]-secretase-cleaved soluble APP (sAPP[alpha]). Low energy laser at 632.8 nm is able to suppress amyloid-[beta] peptide (A[beta])-induced oxidative and inflammatory responses in primary astrocytes, suggesting it has neuroprotective effects against oxidative stress and inflammation in AD. This thesis work provides insights into potential therapeutic treatments and prevention of AD.Includes bibliographical references