Recent Insights Into the Role of Glia and Oxidative Stress in Alzheimer’s Disease Gained From Drosophila

Authors

Lindsey D Goodman
Hugo J Bellen

Publication Date

2-1-2022

Journal

Current Opinion in Neurobiology

DOI

10.1016/j.conb.2021.07.012

PMID

34418791

PMCID

PMC8854453

PubMedCentral® Posted Date

2-1-2023

PubMedCentral® Full Text Version

Author MSS

Published Open-Access

yes

Keywords

Alzheimer Disease, Amyloid beta-Peptides, Animals, Drosophila, Neuroglia, Oxidative Stress

Abstract

Here, we discuss findings made using Drosophila on Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk and progression. Recent studies have investigated the mechanisms underlying glia-mediated neuroprotection in AD. First, we discuss a novel mechanism of glial lipid droplet formation that occurs in response to elevated reactive oxygen species in neurons. The data suggest that disruptions to this process contribute to AD risk. We further discuss novel mechanistic insights into glia-mediated Aβ42-clearance made using the fly. Finally, we highlight work that provides evidence that the aberrant accumulation of reactive oxygen species in AD may not just be a consequence of disease but contribute to disease progression as well. Cumulatively, the discussed studies highlight recent, relevant discoveries in AD made using Drosophila.