Role of glycogen synthase kinase-3 in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease

Multiple reports suggest that glycogen synthase kinase-3(GSK3)plays an important role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease(AD).The level and enzymatic activity of GSK3 is elevated in AD.Cell culture studies and animal model studies with both invertebrates and mammals find that over-activity of GSK3 causes hyper-phosphorylation of the tau protein,increased production of β-amyloid,learning and memory impairments,and associated neurodegeneration.GSK-3β inhibitors prevent tau hyper-phosphorylation in AD transgenic animals so they are of potential use in the prevention and treatment of AD.