Researchers at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University have found that the protein RPT6 in the brain increases gene expression, thus assisting in strengthening memory formation. RPT6 plays a crucial part in bonding to DNA. Thus, this discovery has the potential to develop treatments for memory loss and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The discovery of the function of protein RPT6 in the brain was first explored in the Journal of Neuroscience. RPTG is a protein that is found in every cell. Previously, RPT6 was known for its role in the proteasome complex. It provides necessary “housekeeping” within the hippocampus and ultimately assists the proteasome complex with destroying other proteins. The study proved the dual function of RPT6, as it can bind to DNA and regulate gene expression. This crucial discovery is a stepping stone in unraveling more research regarding gene expression control and how it can impact memory formation.
While protein is essential for all body parts, it is vital for human brains as it allows for connective tissue between brain cells. This allows brain cells to communicate with one another through chemical reactions. Without sufficient protein, brain development and growth are severely compromised. The brain undergoes changes in structure and function from childhood to later adulthood. These changes are seen in the frontal cortex and parietal cortex, as well as the hippocampus, which grows in size as one grows older.
One prominent memory disease is Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s disease is progressive and ultimately fatal. It leads to harmful plaques, causing the hippocampus to shrink. The proteins within the brain form clumps and tangle together, damaging neurons and destroying connective tissue between brain cells. Individuals with Alzheimer’s also have tangles of protein called tau, leading to abnormal clumps and brain death. Because of this, protein in the brain is essential to preserving memories. Another common disorder is PTSD. Similar to Alzheimer’s, the hippocampal volume reduces significantly. Lowered hippocampal volume correlates with trauma and memory impairment. RPT6 does not play a large role in PTSD, but another protein, FKBP5, helps moderate the risk of developing PTSD due to child abuse.
As further studies are conducted analyzing RPT6, scientists are working on treating and understanding memory disorders, including Alzheimer’s, dementia, and PTSD. While curing the disorders may take additional time, scientists are confident that potential therapeutic targets for treating maladaptive memory are possible. Because of one protein, memory disorder treatments have found breakthroughs, changing the face of neuroscience.
